Djokovic loses temper but wins through

WORLD No.1 Novak Djokovic said he was lucky to reach his 30th grand slam semi-final after almost being disqualified during his quarter-final with Tomas Berdych.

Serbia’s Novak Djokovic on his way to victory over Tomas Berdych. Picture: Michel Euler

WORLD No.1 Novak Djokovic said he was lucky to reach his 30th grand slam semi-final after almost being disqualified during his quarter-final with Tomas Berdych.

Djokovic is seeking a first French Open crown but his bid almost came undone in the third set.

In his frustration after missing a break point, the Serb went to smash his racquet on the ground but it slipped out of his grasp and almost hit a line judge.

If the racquet had hit the official, who had to move to not get hit, Djokovic would have been disqualified.

"I was lucky there," Djokovic admitted.

"I apologised to the people that have been in this particular situation with me and that could have been hurt by my racquet.

"But, you know, it was never the intention. It was just some unfortunate bounce, but fortunate ending of that scenario. That's all I can say."

Djokovic now faces Dominic Thiem of Austria tonight for a place in the final after defeating Berdych 6-3 7-5 6-3.

The winner of that clash will take on Andy Murray or Stan Wawrinka, who play in tonight's other semi.

In the women's semi-finals defending champion Serena Williams will play Dutchwoman Kiki Bertens after she struggled in a 5-7, 6-4, 6-1 victory against Kazakh Yulia Putintseva.

"I didn't think I was going to win that in the second set, a relieved Williams said.

"I did and I'm really excited."

Australian Sam Stosur will play fourth seed Garbine Muguruza for the chance to meet Williams or Bertens in tomorrow's final.

Originally published as Djokovic loses temper but wins through