Novak Djokovic is one step away from completing his career Grand Slam after advancing to the final of this year's French Open.
© Getty Images
It was plain sailing for the world number one on the Suzanne Lenglen Court as he wrapped up a 6-2 6-1 6-4 victory over Dominic Thiem in just one hour 50 minutes on Friday afternoon.
The Serbian came out of the gate at full speed, holding to love in the match's first game before opening up a break at the first attempt. Encouraged on by the crowd, Thiem made Djokovic work for his points as the set drew on - even earning applause from his opponent at several junctures.
The score refused to acknowledge Thiem's effort, however, and Djokovic was able to take advantage of an unforced error to claim another break and the set 6-2.
The second set was an even more unforgiving affair for the Austrian - appearing at a Grand Slam semi-final for the first time in his career - as Djokovic blistered through with five straight wins to claim a 6-1 win in only 28 minutes.
Thiem refused to be beaten though and threatened to make a match of it in the third set as he pulled out two aces to move into a 3-0 lead.
Djokovic was not to be behind for long as he embarked on another five-game streak - including a shot-of-the-tournament contender en route - to put him within a whisker of the final.
The victory was confirmed mere minutes later as Thiem returned a forehand shot just wide, ensuring Djokovic a fourth appearance in the final at Roland Garros, where he will face either Andy Murray or reigning champion Stanislas Wawrinka.
Neil Wilkes
