Andy Murray defeated Novak Djokovic 7-5, 7-5 in the semi-finals of the Olympic tennis event to guarantee himself a medal in Sunday’s final.
World No.4 Murray started play aggressively, immediately putting the pressure on the Serb. There was some fantastic trading of groundstrokes as neither player let their standard drop.
Both players only hit five unforced errors each in the opener, ensuring that play stayed with serve throughout until the last moment. At 6-5 Murray edged ahead taking the break and the first set with a drop backhand volley.
Right at the start of the second set, Djokovic earned his first break point of the match but failed to convert as he pushed a backhand wide. More mistakes from the world No.2 ensured that Murray held onto his serve.
Djokovic was looking to be more offensive in the second set as he forced Murray to defend three break points on his opening service games, but the British No.1 held his nerve and continued to lead.
In a mirror of the first set, Murray saw his chance at 6-5 earning himself three match points. While Djokovic saved the first match point, a low forehand from the British No.1 sealed the win.
To contest the gold medal, Murray will play world No.1 Roger Federer, who he last played at the 2012 Wimbledon Championships.
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