John Isner: 'I believe I can beat Novak Djokovic'

John Isner is convinced that he has what it takes to see off world number two Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals of the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells later today.

The big-hitting American booked his place in the last four of the Californian event by beating Ernests Gulbis in straight sets on Friday.

Isner struck 13 aces and won 81% of points behind his first serve as he prevailed by winning two tie-breaks, edging the first 7-4 before taking the second 7-3.

"I certainly hit my biggest serves in those tiebreakers," Isner told reporters after the match.

"I think, especially in the second set one, I was going after it with everything I had. They found their mark and it helped a lot."

Isner defeated Djokovic in the semi-finals in Indian Wells in 2012 and also beat the six-time Grand Slam champion at the Cincinnati Masters last year.

"I believe I can win," Isner added. "I have done it against this guy before on this court right here in this exact same situation two years ago."

If Isner can record a third career win over Djokovic, then he will face either Roger Federer or Alexandr Dolgopolov in the final.