Except for a second set hiccup, Novak Djokovic of Serbia had no doubts that he would be defeating Kei Nishikori of Japan in the semifinals of the 2014 ATP World Tour Finals. The World No. 1 came out as the victor early Sunday (Australia time) beating the Japanese in three sets, 6-1, 3-6, 6-0. The Serbian now awaits the winner between Roger Federer and Stan Wawrinka in the other final four match-up later on the day.

The second set loss was the first for Djokovic after going undefeated in all six games played in the group stages in the season-ending tournament at the O2 Arena in London, United Kingdom. But it appeared, Djokovic was just waiting for his opportunity to dominate. The Serbian won the opening set easily as well as the third and final set taking advantage of Nishikori’s unforced errors (25) while being aggressive and effective with his first serve— 82% first serve points won for the Serbian.

The match was finished in 1 hour and 27 minutes and Djokovic has now won his past 14 matches in the season finale in London. Djokovic also grabbed the lead over Nishikori in their head-to-head career meetings, 3-2.

Nishikori broke Djokovic’s serve twice in the second set using his forehand to put pressure on Djokovic. The Serbian lost the second set but responded in style in the third. Overall, Djokovic had nine opportunities to break the Japanese and pulled it off six times.

In the final either against Federer or Wawrinka, Djokovic will again be the favoured player as he aims for his third straight crown at the ATP World Tour Finals in London and fourth overall after winning in 2012, 2013 and 2008, when the season finale was held in Shanghai and previously called the Tennis Masters Cup.

While Nishikori’s season ended on a low note, the Japanese will still climb in the ATP Rankings to a career-high World No. 5 spot owing to his good showing in London and a consistent excellent effort the entire year.

The Novak Djokovic vs. Roger Federer or Stan Wawrinka championship match is set on Monday, Australia time.

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