Djokovic motors into Cincy quarters as Federer ousted By Bill Scott

World number one Novak Djokovic has a remarkably clear road to the ATP Cincinnati Masters final after producing an efficient victory while third seed Roger Federer crashed out of the US Open tuneup event.

Djokovic was never in danger in his 6-3, 6-4 triumph over 53rd-ranked Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta, whom he finished off in 90 minutes on Wednesday.

Federer fell in a first-time meeting with Russian Andrey Rublev, who posted a 6-3, 6-4 upset.

Defending champion Djokovic will continue his quest in a Friday quarter-final, taking on France's Lucas Pouille, a 6-7 (3/7), 6-4, 6-2 winner over Russian Karen Khachanov.

Djokovic earned his eighth straight victory at Cincinnati on the first of two match points.

"I'm very pleased today. I beat a top quality player," Djokovic said.

"It was straight sets but the score doesn't indicate how tough it was.

"He had break points in both sets and I got out of trouble with some good serves. Overall, it was a really good match."
"But the combination was tough: he was playing well. I was maybe struggling especially on the offensive. I didn't think I was feeling the ball badly, but sometimes can't rely on that serve to the one-two punch."
"Today I was just trying to do my best. I told myself I need to play every point to the end. No matter what the situation, I kept fighting."
"Defense, offense, serving well. Didn't give me anything. He was everywhere. So it was tough for me, but excellent match by him. I was impressed."
- Barty eyes No. 1 return -
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"It was more about the fight today than the tennis."