John Isner through to Indian Wells semi-finals

John Isner has progressed to the semi-finals of the BNP Paribas Open at the expense of Ernests Gulbis.

The American won his quarter-final tie against Gulbis 7-6(4) 7-6(3) at Indian Wells on Friday.

The 28-year-old saved one set point at 5-6 prior to a tie-break and secured the mini-break to go up 5-3, eventually winning it with two big first serves.

The second set was close as well, with Isner dropping serve for the only the second time in the tournament in the opening game.

Gulbis got into his rhythm and saved five break points, but lost his composure when serving for the set at 5-4 and eventually lost it on a tie-break.

Isner will now take on Novak Djokovic for a place in the final.