World number two Carlos Alcaraz battled past Andrey Rublev 6-3 4-6 7-5 to reach the Cincinnati Open semi-finals.<\/p>\n
The Spaniard took control with the first set, but his Russian opponent produced an excellent fightback to level.<\/p>\n
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World number 11 Rublev’s quality faltered, though, in the tense and decisive third set as he committed two double faults, including one on match point.<\/p>\n
“I maintained positive thoughts all the time, even though I lost focus a few times during the second set,” said Alcaraz.<\/p>\n
“Playing someone like Andrey, when you lose focus on two or three points, it [can] cost you the set or almost the match. I just stayed strong mentally and that’s what I’m most proud of.”<\/p>\n
Surviving the gruelling quarter-final, which took two hours and 17 minutes, meant Alcaraz has made the final four of the event for the second time and reached a 12th ATP 1000 semi-final.<\/p>\n
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The 22-year-old will face either American Ben Shelton or German world number three Alexander Zverev for a place in the final, while Wimbledon champion Jannik Sinner and Frenchman Terence Atmane meet in the other semi-final.<\/p>\n
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