Wimbledon 2015: Richard Gasquet to meet Novak Djokovic in semi-final after five-set thriller with Stan Wawrinka
Richard Gasquet will meet Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals at Wimbledon after beating Stanislas Wawrinka in an enthralling five-set battle.
Eight years on from his last appearance at the semi-final stage at SW19, the Frenchman battled to a 4-6 6-4 6-4 4-6 9-11 victory over the French Open champion.
Defending champion Djokovic meanwhile booked his place in the semi-final after easing past Marin Cilic in straight days.
There was no rest for the world no. 1 whose two-day battle with Kevin Anderson meant his last eight meeting with Cilic on Wednesday was his third straight game this week.
But Djokovic remains on course for his third title as SW19 after beating the Croatian 6-4 6-4 6-4.
"I didn't know how my body was going to feel but I was hoping I would play well, which I have done," Djokovic told the BBC.
"I try not to take it for granted. The top players are expected to reach the final stages but you have to earn it."
While Djokovic sealed his place in the final four in straight forward fashion, Gasquet shared a tremendous exchange with Wawrinka in order to join him.
The Frenchman stuttered in the second and third set after dominating the opener before a thrilling final set that lasted over an hour and a half saw him claim a hard fought victory.
"It was tough and I made some mistakes," Gasquet told BBC One after his win. "He had big confidence after Paris and I had to fight. I really wanted to win. It's a great feeling as it's a big match.
"It came down to mental strength. I was aggressive and it was a great battle."
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