Federer into last four

 

Originally published on 13/10/17 00:00

The Swiss defeated his French opponent 7-5 6-4 to remain on course for a third Masters success of an outstanding season.

It was far from a vintage display from Federer. The 36-year-old was untidy from the baseline and it was his skills in the forecourt that propelled him to an eighth successive win against the Frenchman.

Too often Gasquet has been guilty of being too passive against the elite – but it’s not an accusation that can be aimed at him this time. The 31-year-old adopted an aggressive mindset from the outset and he was keen to stay close to the baseline.

The Frenchman’s spectacular one-handed backhand may have gained the approval of the pro-Federer crowd, but it was his inability to win cheap points behind his delivery that contributed to the end result.

Federer did not hit top gear, but he has been able to reach the business of the tournament without conceding a set.

Juan Martin del Potro overcame an injury scare to take out Viktor Troicki 4-6 6-1 6-4 and set up a last four encounter with Federer.

The Argentine, attempting to win his first Masters crown, took a nasty tumble in the fifth game of the decider. He tripped and fell on his troublesome left wrist and he looked understandably uneasy for the remainder of the contest.

It remains to be seen if he can recover in time for his clash with the Swiss on Saturday.

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