2023 Roland Garros: Novak Djokovic overcomes Khachanov's threat to reach the semifinals

Novak Djokovic advanced to the semifinal at Roland Garros

TENNIS 2023 Roland Garros: Novak Djokovic overcomes Khachanov's threat to reach the semifinals

Funmilayo Fameso 20:08 - 06.06.2023

Novak Djokovic reached his 12th career semifinal at the Roland Garros, after dispatching Karen Khachanov in a thrilling match.

World No.1 tennis player Novak Djokovic recovered from a set down to beat Karen Khachanov 4-6, 7-6(0), 6-2, 6-4 to reach the Roland Garros semifinals for the twelfth time in his career.

Match recap

Khachanov got the first break of the match to go 3-2 up and held on to it to take the first set 6-4.

The second set was a tight one leading to a tiebreak, which was completely one-sided, as Djokovic won it 7-6(0), making it a set apiece.

Novak Djokovic matches on to his 12th semifinal at Roland Garros
Novak Djokovic

Djokovic broke for the second time in the third set and served at 5-2, taking full control to win 6-2.

A huge hold for Khachanov to start the fourth set from 0-30, Djokovic broke to lead 2-1, as the Russian rallied back to get the set back on serve at 4-4.

With Khachanov failing to hold, Djokovic broke to love and served for the match, eventually sealing the victory 6-4.

Speaking on beating Khachanov, Djokovic said he has lots of respect for the Russian.

“You’re not gonna have victories handed over to you. You gotta earn them.. it was a big fight. It always is. I have lots of respect for Karen. He’s a great fighter, a great player. I wish him all the best for the rest of the year.”

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