Novak Djokovic has admitted that he needed to play "great tennis" to beat Andy Murray in the French Open semi-finals.
The world number one remains on course for winning a career Grand Slam after beating the Brit over two days at Roland Garros.
A storm halted play on Friday evening, but Djokovic eventually came through in five sets to set up a showdown with Stanislas Wawrinka.
"I think I was playing some great tennis yesterday," the Serbian told reporters. "He found his game late in the third. I had many opportunities to finish the match in straight sets, but credit to Andy.
"He showed why he's one of the biggest competitors and fighters on the tour. A bit different conditions, with sun and then later in the evening it got a bit slower. He was using his variety in the game very well.
"It was a really tough match, over four hours all together, yesterday and today. No different from any other match that we played against each other. It's always a thriller, always a marathon."
Djokovic has reached the French Open final on two previous occasions, losing both times to Rafael Nadal.
Jack Prescott
