Defending Shanghai Masters champion Novak Djokovic was put to an even tougher test on Friday’s quarterfinal match against Gael Monfils of France but eventually won.
The 26-year old Serbian top-seed regrouped after losing the first set to win the match in two hours and 23 minutes 6-7, 6-2, 6-4.
“I started serving quite badly, but [I did] not [commit] many unforced errors,” said Djokovic. “I was serving better as the match went on. Today was a very physical match and very intense. We played many rallies. I’m glad that I made it through.”
Djokovic has now won 18 matches in a row in China after winning the China Open and Shanghai Masters a year ago and successfully defending the title in Beijing last weekend.
The loss meant that Monfils has yet to beat Djokovic in their nine meetings.
“It was a tough match today, a tough battle,” said Monfils. “I’m still happy. I haven’t practiced much before here. To come here [and play] strong was good. He is one of the best players in the world, and I have no shame today… I’m already looking forward for 2014.”
Monfils seemed headed to produce another upset in this ATP Masters 1000 tournament after defeating fifth-seed Roger Federer in the previous round.
Djokovic will next face Jo-Wilfried Tsonga of France in the semifinals on Saturday.