Richard defeated Ivan Dodig 4-6 6-3 7-6 and 6-0. His next opponent will be the winner of Kavcic/Tsonga.
The first set was dominated by the servers, One weak service game cost Richard the set. Richard was not at his best and Dodig broke in the third game of the second set. The Croate had further breakpoints in the fifth game, but Richard saved them all and the momentum changed. Richard was more aggressive, broke back for 3 all and achieved the vital break at 4-3* to take the second set. The third set went to a breaker, but was dominated by Richard. This domination resulted in a 7-2 tiebreak win for him. Dodig's five setter in the heat two days ago may have taken its toll. The Croate collapsed totally in the fourth set which Richard won easily 6-0.
A note: Richard scored thrice as many forehand than backhand winners.
