Novak Djokovic beats Benoit Paire at the Cincinnati Masters
Thursday 20 August 2015 08:20, UK
Novak Djokovic came through against Benoit Paire in a highly entertaining 7-6 6-2 victory to reach the third round of the Cincinnati Masters.
The top seed and world No 1 needs a win in Cincinnati to become the first player with titles at all nine ATP Masters events.
He was denied the chance to win a 25th Masters trophy in Montreal at the weekend when he was beaten in three sets by Britain's Andy Murray.
But despite making a slow start against the Frenchman, the Serb, who has lost just four matches all season, came through in an hour and 40 minutes, with the first set alone taking 64 minutes.
Wimbledon champion Djokovic had to contend not only with being broken but also some trick shots from Paire, who went toe to toe in the first set but lost it 7-5.
It was looking like another tight affair in the second until 2-2, but Djokovic finally broke away to reach match point and sealed the match with a smash.
Following his victory, Djokovic said his coach had told him to "expect the unexpected" against Paire.
A relieved-looking Djokovic told Sky Sports 3. "He's a very nice guy off the court and I know him well but this was the first time I played him in an official match so I didn't know what to expect. It was very frustrating at times."
Djokovic admitted the conditions were tough, but is hoping to land his first title in Cincinnati at the end of the week.
"I've been playing here pretty well. I'm a four-times finalist but it gives me enough reason to believe I can do well.
"Today has been a tennis of ups and downs and I definitely need to improve if I want to go far."
He will next face 13th seed David Goffin from Belgium after he beat experienced left-hander Fernando Verdasco 6-4 7-6 (7-4).
You can tune in to watch the Cincinnati Masters on Sky Sports all this week.
Non-subscribers can also watch without a contract through online streaming service NOW TV.
By purchasing a Sky Sports Day Pass for £6.99 or Sky Sports Week Pass for £10.99, you can enjoy access to all seven Sky Sports channels and watch on a TV with a NOW TV Box or on a range of devices.
