Djokovic Comes Another Step Closer To Alcaraz Clash By Reaching Cincinnati Semifinals

| by Evita Mueller

Novak Djokovic is ruthless in how he approaches tennis, and Taylor Fritz saw that up close during their Cincinnati Masters match.

Novak Djokovic made a winning return at the Cincinnati Masters, and he's keeping it going. Having a chance to reclaim the number one rank while in the US is an excellent motivator for him, but it's mostly about winning the US Open.

He's capable of that with his tremendously impressive performances so far. Taylor Fritz was on his way to complete the golden set against Lajovic though the Serbian retired before Fritz could win it 6-0. To avenge his compatriot, Novak Djokovic served Fritz a bagel.

6-0 in 21 minutes was probably the worst beatdown Fritz had experienced in a long time. The blame mainly falls on him as he couldn't hit a serve to save his life and played very poorly. Yes, Djokovic was spectacular, but Fritz really didn't help himself.

WATCH: Gauff Jokes About Being 'Opening Act' Before Djokovic-Monfils Clash
WATCH: Gauff Jokes About Being 'Opening Act' Before Djokovic-Monfils Clash

The second set opened better for the American as he took an early 2-0 lead. Djokovic bounced back nicely to cruise through his games but couldn't immediately break back. He would at 3-4 to make it 4-4 and then won his service game for the 5-4 lead.

Fritz served a bit better in this set but mostly played better overall. He limited the errors as Djokovic missed a bit more. Still, the Serbian proved as good as ever in crucial moments finishing off the second set surge with a break to win the match in two sets.

The final score was 6-0 6-4 for the semi-final against Alexander Zverev. We're now one Alcaraz and one Djokovic win away from the ultimate final in their first showdown since Wimbledon. Djokovic first needs to overcome Zverev, who is playing in solid form and is unbeaten in his last nine matches here.

One Step Closer To Djokovic Clash: Alcaraz Battles Through To Cincinnati Semifinals
One Step Closer To Djokovic Clash: Alcaraz Battles Through To Cincinnati Semifinals

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