Djokovic 'plays like machine' to reach Japan Open semis
What's the story
Men's world number one tennis star Novak Djokovic said he played like a machine against Lucas Pouille after reaching the semis of the Japan Open. Djokovic, who is featuring in his first tournament after quitting because of injury against Stan Wawrinka at the US Open 2019, raced past his opponent 6-1, 6-2. Here's more on Djokovic.
Djoker run
Djokovic's fine run this season continues
Serbian Djokovic continues to pursue his fourth tour-level title of the season. The top seed is just two victories away from earning his 10th trophy on a tournament main draw debut. The 32-year-old tennis star has now made at least the semis in six of his past seven tournaments and in eight of his 12 events this season.
Twitter Post
Djoker at his best
Back to his brutal, brilliant best. 💪@DjokerNole defeats Pouille 6-1, 6-2 in 50 minutes to make the @rakutenopen semis 👏 pic.twitter.com/GsTLhkD4kJ
— ATP Tour (@atptour) October 4, 2019
Comments
I took away the time from him, says Djokovic
Djokovic highlighted what made him click against Pouille in the quarters. "I saw him play a couple of days ago against Nishioka and he was playing really well. I took away the time from him. I served well, served many aces, returned a lot of his serves back and just used every opportunity to come in. Just overall, a really flawless performance."
Quote
Djoker 'plays like a machine'
"I am not a machine. But I did play like one today. This was one of the best matches I played this year," he said. "I am very, very pleased with the way I feel and played on the court."
Results
Djoker to face Goffin in semis, Millman up against Opelka
Djokovic will face David Goffin in the semis. Goffin overcame Hyeon Chung in straight sets to advance. Djoker has won six of his seven FedEx ATP head-to-head meetings against Goffin and enters the tie as the favorite. Meanwhile, John Millman beat Taro Daniel 6-4, 6-0 and will face Reilly Opelka next, who went on to win against Yasutaka Uchiyama 6-3, 6-3.