Novak Djokovic on reaching Dubai Championships quarter-finals: I played better quality tennis

Novak Djokovic sent a clear message that he played “better quality tennis” after storming into the quarter-finals of the Dubai Tennis Championships.

The Serbian defeated Tallon Griekspoor of the Netherlands 6-2, 6-3 on Wednesday to display his best form in Dubai, where he has won the competition five times.

Djokovic, who was taken to three sets by Czech qualifier Tomas Machac, returned to his ruthless game as he blasted past Griekspoor with two breaks of serve. The Serbian fired winners at will and showcased his vintage drop shot in the match.

“It’s been a great evening for me. Yesterday, I really had to work hard to get a win,” Djokovic said.

“Tonight, right from the beginning I was sharp. I played better quality tennis. Maybe the last three or four games were not the best to close the match but I managed to find the good serve in the end.

“I’m very pleased… with the way I felt on the court and hopefully things can go in the right direction for tomorrow.”

Djokovic will next play Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz in the quarter-finals. Meanwhile, Andrey Rublev saved five match points to secure a 1-6, 7-6(6), 7-6(3) victory over Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. Rublev will next meet Botic van de Zandschulp, who defeated Mikael Ymer 3-6, 6-3, 6-3.

“These matches, when it’s over and somehow you win, it’s always special. I don’t know. I have no words to describe it,” Rublev said.

“One time maybe you feel lucky, you feel super tight and emotional because you almost lose. When it happens for a third time, you think now there’s no chance. When you’re three times lucky it’s like ‘How many more Christmas presents do I have?'”