Novak Djokovic has admitted that he was relieved to avoid a long match against Tomas Berdych in the Australian Open quarter-finals today.
The defending champion was involved in a five-hour match against Stanislas Wawrinka on Sunday but looked fresh against Berdych, winning 6-1 4-6 6-1 6-4 in comfortable fashion.
Djokovic believes that he is getting close to top form and admitted that he was delighted with his display against the Czech.
He said: "It was a great performance, I was really hoping to have a shorter match. Tomas is an established top player, it was always going to be a tough match.
"I was aware of his qualities and am really pleased to win. I had a very easy day yesterday to recover and generally we did a great job because tonight I felt fit.
"David is one of the most respected guys on the tour because he is intense in every match and never gives up."
David Ferrer awaits Djokovic in the semi-finals after he survived a scare to beat Nicolas Almagro in five sets earlier today.
Liam Power
