Djokovic delivers masterclass performance, defeats Fritz to secure semifinal berth against Zverev

Novak Djokovic cruised past Taylor Fritz in less than an hour with a score of 6-0, 6-4, advancing to the semifinals of the Western & Southern Open and will crush against Alexander Zverev.

The Serbian had a smooth journey in the Cincinnati Open, with wins over Alejandro Davidovich Fokina (with the Spaniard retiring when Djokovic led 6-4) and a triumph against Gael Monfils.

World No. 9 Fritz overcame Jiri Lehecka, Lorenzo Sonego, and Dusan Lajovic to reach the quarterfinals of Cincinnati for the first time in his career, marking his fifth participation.

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The first set lasted just 21 minutes, showcasing Djokovic's dominance as he secured three breaks and claimed the set 6-0. Fritz struggled with his serve, managing a mere 35% first serve accuracy and a 50% win rate on those points. His second serve fared even worse at 18%.

On the other hand, Djokovic maintained a 67% first serve rate, winning 80% on first serve and 80% on second serve. He won 75% of the points played in the set.

The second set began with Fritz taking an early break and a 2-0 lead. Although he led 4-2 at one point, Fritz's consistency with the serve wavered, leading to two consecutive breaks against him. This allowed world No. 2 Djokovic to win the final four games in a row, sealing the match 6-0, 6-4.

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Despite the reduced gap, Djokovic continued to dominate on serve, winning 81% of first serve points and 56% on second serve. Once again, Fritz struggled with his second serve, hitting it at a weak 36%, which played a crucial role in the victory for the 23-time Grand Slam champion.

Additionally, Djokovic tallied 13 winners and 6 unforced errors, compared to Fritz's 7 winners and 9 unforced errors.

In the semifinals, Djokovic will face Alexander Zverev, who defeated Adrian Mannarino 6-2, 6-3. They have met eleven times in total, with Djokovic triumphing seven times and Zverev securing four victories.

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