• Rogers Cup

Djokovic overcomes delay and Tipsarevic to reach final

Novak Djokovic is aiming for back-to-back titles © Getty Images

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• Profile: Novak Djokovic | Richard Gasquet | John Isner | Janko Tipsarevic

Novak Djokovic cruised into the final of the Rogers Cup in Toronto, despite a 90-minute rain delay disrupting his rhythm on Saturday evening.

Djokovic was ruthless in the final stages of his semi-final against Janko Tipsarevic, ultimately recording a 6-4 6-1 victory. Inclement weather halted play in the sixth game of the first set, with Djokovic settling the better of the two competitors upon their return to the court.

Games went with serve until heavens opened and it wasn't until the 10th game of the opening set that Djokovic edged ahead. The world No. 2 added extra heat to his groundstrokes as the set progressed, with the pressure telling on Tipsarevic, who hit his shot long on set point.

The momentum followed Djokovic into the second set. The Serbian won his opening two service games of the set to love before breaking Tipsarevic again to steal a 3-1 lead.

Tipsarevic began to hit his backhand long and wide on a regular basis as Djokovic pounded heavy shots from the baseline. A remarkable winner then secured Djokovic a double break and the opportunity to serve out the match.

However, Tipsarevic rallied to break back as Djokovic spurned a match point. It only delayed the inevitable, though, with Djokovic claiming victory the following game to keep his title defence alive.

Djokovic will meet Richard Gasquet in the final on Sunday after he edged out John Isner 7-6(3) 6-3. Gasquet, the 14th seed for the tournament, had an intelligent service game to thank for his triumph, as Isner won just 10 points on the Frenchman's delivery.

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