Novak Djokovic downs Richard Gasquet to cruise into quarters – Sony Ericsson Open 2012
World number one, Novak Djokovic, got the better of the French star, Richard Gasquet, in straight sets at the Sony Ericsson Open 2012. He joggled up a 7-5, 6-3 victory over the 25-year-old to book a spot in the last eight at this ATP (Association of Tennis
Professionals) World Tour Masters 1000 event held at Key Biscayne.
The Serbian ace displayed flawless performance to oust Gasquet in their seventh encounter. After outclassing the Swiss resident in one hour and 39 minutes, Djokovic extended his lead in their FedEx ATP Head 2 Head series by 6-1. The contestants previously
battled each other at the French Open last circuit where the Serb crushed Gasquet in straight sets.
"It's expected to have ups and downs when you're playing such a talented player and somebody that can play equally well and offensive and defensive style," said Djokovic. "He came up with some great shots today. I thought that he had really good chances
to win the first set. I managed to stay composed, play well when I needed to, and then it's much different when you have a set advantage."
Seeded top in this tournament, Djokovic made a nervy start on the Miami hard courts. He suffered the first blow in the third game and subsequently went 1-3 down. However, the Serb snatched his break back in the sixth game and then maintained consistency
in his game to keep remaining serves. He got the breakthrough in the last game with the help from incredible backhands from his box of tricks, ultimately sealing the deal by winning seven games to five.
The Serb hammered 14 winners and capitalised on two out of six break opportunities to inch towards the glory. Djokovic also showed tremendous defensive skills as he brushed off six out of seven breakpoints encountered.
The 24-year-old kept momentum rolling into the follow-up set and smoothly kept entire serves without facing any real challenge. He cashed in one out of four break chances in the fourth game to pull out the set with a 6-3 win.
Summing up the French’s performance in this battle, Gasquet produced a better first serve share of 62 per cent as opposed to Djokovic’s 58 per cent and sought seven break chances. However, he converted one to his advantage and eventually bowed out to the
top seed.
Djokovic will square off against the world number five, David Ferrer, who dumped Juan Martin Del Potro in straight sets to set-up this clash.
Tags: