Novak Djokovic will want to keep his preparations for the French Open to stay on course when the world number two faces off against the dangerous David Goffin in the quarterfinals of the Monte Carlo Masters on Friday.
Djokovic has not been at his best in 2017, but has fought his way into the last eight of this tournament. With another Masters 1000 title now just three wins away, the Serbian will want to put his game face on and topple the Belgian, who is seeded tenth.
The former world number one was in danger of bowing out in the third round in Monte Carlo on Thursday, before his famed ability to handle the pressure came to his rescue.
Facing two break points in the deciding set against Pablo Carreno Busta, Djokovic held his nerve to see off the challenge from the Spaniard 6-2, 4-6, 6-4 in two hours and 26 minutes.
"It's great to overcome the big challenge presented to me, with this kind of win, even though I haven't played the way I wanted," a relieved Djokovic said. "He's very difficult to play against.
"He's always making you play an extra ball. It's a win I'll take as a great confidence boost. I'm confident that with dedication and commitment and a positive mindset, I can get to the level where I want to be."
Topsy turvy ✔️
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) April 20, 2017
But ?? Djokovic edges ?? Carreno Busta in a thriller to reach the last 8️⃣#MCROLEXMASTERS pic.twitter.com/ep9gJIQRq4
After such an exhausting battle, Djokovic will be keen to get the better of Goffin in much more serene circumstances.
And the Serbian is right to expect an easier match too, owing to his head-to-head record against Goffin. In five previous matches between the two, Djokovic has won all of them, while dropping just one set in all of those contests.
"I think I've earned the right to be optimistic everywhere I play, everywhere I go, because of the career and results that I've had," the Serbian added. "I think that will never change. I will always want to win in every match that I play in, every tournament that I play in.
"Of course, playing in Monte Carlo has a special meaning to me because I live here and I train in this club all year round. I have many friends and family that come and support me. It feels very special. That's why I always try to give extra effort to really make a good result in this tournament."
Hey @David__Goffin how did you win this point?
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) April 21, 2017
Brilliant ??#MCROLEXMASTERS pic.twitter.com/AAQfd6VH6r
If Djokovic wins and Rafael Nadal also comes through in his quarterfinal, a blockbuster semifinal between the two legends awaits.
Where to Watch Live
Djokovic vs Goffin is the third quarterfinal scheduled for Friday in Monte Carlo. The first quarterfinal is set to begin at 11am local time (2.30pm IST, 10am BST, 5am ET). TV and live streaming information is below.
India: TV: Ten 3 and Ten 1 HD. Live Streaming: Sony Liv.
France: TV: Canal +
US: TV: Tennis Channel: Live Streaming: Tennis Channel Live.
UK: TV: Sky Sports: Live Streaming: Sky Go.
China: TV: CCTV.
Canada: TV: TSN5. Live Streaming: TSN TV.
Australia: TV: ESPN.
Alternative live streaming option and for the rest of the world: Monte Carlo Masters official website.
