Nikoloz Basilashvili ousts Stefanos Tsitsipas to reach first Masters 1000 semi-final

Nikoloz Basilashvili earned the biggest win of his career to date with a stunning victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas at Indian Wells. 

The Georgian, who was competing in his first ever Masters 1000 quarter-final, raised his level in the third set to come through an enthralling encounter in the Californian desert 6-4, 2-6, 6-4.

Basilashvili, who is known for his aggressive style, caused the Greek star problems from the baseline with a punishing display of powerful groundstrokes.

“I have played really great matches this tournament,” said the world number 36.

“I was not that happy with how I played today but I was happy with how I managed my stress levels.

“First time in the quarter-finals and it is a big court and Stefanos is a super tough player. I had to keep my physical levels and energy levels in a really good shape because I knew mentally I would be a little bit tight and stressed.”

Before this year’s edition at Indian Wells, Basilashvili failed to record a win at the California-based event in his previous four appearances.

“I have spent a lot of time working hard,” Basilashvili added.

“I have been playing really well. For me to overcome stressful moments I am really happy. I also found it here that the conditions don’t suit my game because the balls fly a lot, but this year I am playing well.”

Whilst Basilashvili may have been expecting to face German star and world number four Alexander Zverev, the following quarter-final produced another seismic shock as Taylor Fritz stormed past the Olympic champion.