World number one Novak Djokovic continued his perfect start to 2023 by beating Hubert Hurkacz to reach the Dubai Tennis Championships semi-finals.
The 35-year-old Serb took his record to 15-0 so far this year with a 6-3 7-5 win over Poland’s Hurkacz.
Djokovic, who is chasing a sixth win in Dubai, will next face Daniil Medvedev for a place in Saturday’s final.
Australian Open finalist Medvedev defeated Borna Coric 6-3 6-2 to stay on track for a third title this year.
Meanwhile, defending champion Andrey Rublev beat Botic van de Zandschulp to progress.
The second seed defeated his Dutch opponent 6-3 7-6 (7-3) and will play Alexander Zverev in the last four as the German overcame Lorenzo Sonego 7-5 6-4.
Djokovic needs just 71 minutes to see off Hurkacz and is looking in fine form as he looks to win his third tournament of the year.
“I found the rhythm on my serve throughout the second set,” he said. “I’m really glad with how I played under pressure.”
Meanwhile, Djokovic is waiting for a response on his application for an exemption to visa rules on vaccines in order to enter the United States before the Masters 1000 event in Indian Wells, which begins on 8 March.
The draw for that tournament takes place on Monday, and Djokovic said: “Whatever the decision is before the draw, if I’m not allowed I’m going to pull out, of course, before the draw.”
