Novak Djokovic edged Swiss veteran Roger Federer in full sets in a spotlight semifinal duel to set up his encounter against unseeded Russian Karen Khachanov at the ATP Paris Masters here.
In their 47th career head - to - head on Saturday, the Serbian moved to one win away from his fifth title at the tournament after triumphing 7 - 6 (6), 5 - 7, 7 - 6 (3) in over three hours to improve the record to 25 - 22, Xinhua reported.
"We had epic matches throughout our rivalry but this one definitely ranks as one of the best matches we played, " Djokovic told a news conference.
"When I get to play Roger, I know I have to get the best out of myself in order to win.
That's why our rivalries and matches are so special, " he added.
Following current world number 1 Rafael Nadal's withdrawal, it has undoubtedly become the most highly - anticipated clash at the tournament.
In the full - capacity Bercy Arena, the two superstars didn't let crowds down as their encounter went in a dramatic manner with two sets forced into tie - breaks.
The opening set saw no break en route to the tie - break, where Djokovic saved a set point with three consecutive points for an 8 - 6 win.
The following set was underway in a much similar path, as both players did quite well on their serves, before Federer registered the only break throughout the match in the 12th game to force a decider at 7 - 5.
In the decider, Djokovic surrendered a glorious chance of breaking in the ninth game, only to see his 40 - 15 advantage slip away.
The to - be world number 1 threw his racket onto the court in frustration.
After the duel recorded another tie - break, Djokovic took the initiative at 6 - 1.
Federer displayed his persistence by saving two match points, but still lost 7 - 3.
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