World No. 1 Rafael Nadal narrowly avoided an upset last night against Ivo Karlovic

Rafael Nadal escaped from a tricky match against Ivo Karlovic last night, eventually claiming a 5-7, 6-1, 7-6(7) victory after a tense third set tie-breaker. Karlovic was unseeded for this tournament, but as ever the big serving Croat remained a threat. Even so, he produced an unexpectedly assured performance against Nadal, and the World No. 1 was evidently relieved to have booked his place in the final four.

“For sure, it is a very important victory for me” Stated Nadal. “Being in semi-finals another time here after one month outside competition is fantastic news for me.” “You lose a set against Karlovic, and you are under pressure the rest of the games of the match.”

Karlovic took the defeat in his stride, commenting, “Right now I’m a little disappointed because it was so close; it was only about two points…it could have also went the other way, my way, but it didn’t. But all in all, it was a good week for me, so I am happy.”