Novak Djokovic dropped his first set of the ATP Cup Friday in a titanic struggle with Canada's Denis Shapovalov, surviving a scare before rallying to guide Serbia into a semi-final against Russia.
The world number two was made to work hard in a hot and humid Sydney by the 14th-ranked young gun before prevailing 4-6, 6-1, 7-6 (7/4).
His impressive teammate Dusan Lajovic, buoyed by a huge contingent of Serbian fans at Ken Rosewall Arena, earlier crushed world number 21 Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-4, 6-2.
"This was the closest match I have ever played against Denis. It was so close it could have gone a different way easily," said Djokovic.
"He was playing some terrific tennis and I want to give a huge round of applause and credit to him. Well done."
The win sets up a semi-final against Russia, whose two singles players - world number five Daniil Medvedev and the 17th ranked Karen Khachanov - are unbeaten this season.
The other last four clash will see the Nick Kyrgios-led Australia play either Belgium or Rafael Nadal's Davis Cup-winning Spain, who are on court later Friday.
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