Friday 16 March 2018 17:22, UK
Roger Federer has clung onto his world No 1 ranking after reaching the Indian Wells semi-final on Thursday night.
He beat South Korea's Chung Hyeon 7-5 6-1 for his 16th straight victory of 2018, equalling his own best start to a season.
Federer arrived at Indian Wells knowing anything less than a semi-final finish would cede his world ranking back to Rafael Nadal, who is not playing this week.
But, by matching his blistering start to 2006 which led to 33 wins in 34 matches, Federer will remain as the oldest-ever world No 1, aged 36.
Defending champion Federer will play Borna Coric, who beat Kevin Anderson 2-6 6-4 7-6, in the final four.
The Swiss legend needed one hour and 23 minutes to power past Chung, breaking his serve four times.
Chung, however, will overtake Kei Nishikori as the highest ranked Asian player.
Federer said he plans to get ready for Coric the same way he prepared for Chung.
"He plays similar to Chung," Federer said. "A great mover and has got a world of confidence. "I got to play aggressive tennis as much as I can. Pretty simple, not always easy to do."
You can watch the ATP Masters 1000 from Indian Wells on Sky Sports Arena and via the red button from 7pm on Friday.
Keep up to date with the latest on www.skysports.com/tennis with news, previews, live blogs, reports and expert analysis. On the move? Head to our app for mobile devices and iPad, or follow our Twitter account @SkySportsTennis to join in the conversation.
