May 09, 2009
Novak Djokovic in the semifinals of SERBIA OPEN


Novak Djokovic booked his spot in the semifinals of SERBIA OPEN, defeating
Viktor Troicki in just over an hour in straight sets 6:3, 6:2. Djokovic is
one step closer to making the finals in Belgrade. There were 7,500 roaring
fans that witnessed this blockbuster on centre court at the MGM tennis
complex. Novak’s next opponent in the semifinal will be Italian fourth seed
Andreas Seppi, who defeated Brazilian Markus Daniel in straight sets 6:4, 7:5
in his quarterfinal.

“I did not start the set how I would have liked, but I was able to get back
at the end of the first set. The break at the end of the first set was
crucial; I then held my serve which gave me an edge over my opponent. I was
stunned by the massive support from the Belgrade crowd, and I also must thank
them for it. I hope that the crowd will come to support me even more tomorrow
night.” stated Novak Djokovic.

“I had a chance in the first set that I did not take advantage of. Nole
played well and deserved the win. I wish him all the best in his upcoming
matches”, said Viktor Troicki.

In the second semifinal, from 2 pm tomorrow the test of strength will be
betwee Croat Ivo Karlovic and the surprise of the tournament Pole Lukasz
Kubot. The second seeded Croat was too strong for Italian “dark horse”
 Flavio Cipola in straight sets 6:4, 6:3, while the “lucky looser” Kubot
defeated Belgian Kristof Vliegen in straight sets 7:6, 6:3.

Serbian duo Marko Djokovic and Darko Madjarovski were not able to repeat
their success from their first round encounter losing to Johan Brunstrom and
Jean-Julien Rojer in straight sets 6:3, 6:2.

Other doubles matches played today were: Wassen(Holland), Zelenay (Slovakia)
– Aspelin (Sweeden), Hanley (Australia) 6:4, 6:4, Granollers, Ventura
(Spain) - Huss (Australia), Hutchins (Great Britain) 7:6, 1:6, 10:7, Kubot
(Poland), Marach (Austria) – Ciric, Savic (Serbia) 6:4, 3:6, 10:8.