Marin Cilic finally overcomes Jo-Wilfried Tsonga to reach US Open semi-finals

Defending champion Marin Cilic battled into the semi-finals of the US Open after a drama-filled five-set win over Jo-Wilfried Tsonga.

The Croat was dragged into a decider after squandering three match points in the fourth set, but dug deep to complete a 6-4 6-4 3-6 6-7 6-4 victory over the Frenchman.

After comfortably building a two-set lead, Cilic appeared to be cruising into the last four, but Tsonga converted his seventh break point to suddenly stall his opponent's progress in the third set

Tsonga continued to frustrate the ninth seed in the fourth, saving two match points in the 10th game before holding at 5-5, and then another in the 12th game to force a tie-break, which he won 7-3.

But Cilic would regain command in the fifth set as he broke for a 3-2 lead and then sealed victory with his fifth match point.

"It was a big mental fight, especially after losing that fourth set," said Cilic, who served 29 aces. "Physically, it was very demanding."

"I stayed mentally tough," said Cilic, who served 29 aces. "Jo came up with unbelievable shots but I stuck with my plan. It was a difficult day, very demanding, very hot. Mentally it was very exhausting."

"I would say pride," he answered, when asked if he was more proud or relieved by his progress. "I came to the tournament knowing that I can play well here, that I just needed a couple of matches to get into the rhythm.

"I just kept cool."

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