Novak Djokovic beats John Isner 6-2 6-2 at China Open
Friday 9 October 2015 16:49, UK
Novak Djokovic is into the China Open semi-finals after a straight sets victory over John Isner.
The world No 1 will play David Ferrer, who defeated Lu Yen-Hsun 6-3 6-1, in the final four after easing past Isner 6-2 6-2.
Djokovic is a regular scourge of Isner's big-serving style and immediately underlined his intention to nullify that power, breaking at his very first chance.
The American, who has only defeated Djokovic twice in nine prior matches, found a home for his strong forehands to halt his opponent from running away with the first set but it was ultimately to no avail.
Djokovic magnificently side-stepped a trademark Isner serve, knocking it straight back and forcing a mistake that led to the crucial set-winning break in the opener.
He repeated the trick to take a 2-1 lead in the next set, with his superb defence proving too much of an obstacle for Isner to serve past.
The world No 13 had his moments, winning a rally with a forehand winner at 3-2 down, but found himself broken again by the fleet-footed Djokovic.
The reigning China Open champion went 5-2 up due to a backhand that forced an error, and the pressure he piled on Isner's serve then caused a double fault. Djokovic served out the match and will now play Ferrer in the last four.
Isner was only able to hit two aces as Djokovic came out on top in 52 minutes.
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