SOFIA, February 10, 2017

Friday’s quarterfinal action at the Garanti Koza Sofia Open was highlighted by local favourite Grigor Dimtrov, who eased past Viktor Troicki from Serbia, winning 6-3, 6-3

The third seed saved both of the break points he faced, converting three of his own to seal victory in 65 minutes.

“I was feeling the ball a little bit better, serving well and returning great, so all of those things helped me out there against Viktor,” said Dimitrov. “It’s the first time for me to be in the semi-finals here, so it’s hard not to be excited. It’s been a long time since I’ve played in front of a home crowd and they’ve been crazy all week, so I’m just trying to take it in and enjoy every moment.”

Next up for Dimitrov will be Nikoloz Basilashvili. The 24-year-old from Georgia continued his successful run with a 0-6, 6-3, 6-3 comeback win over Martin Klizan from Slovakia. Basilashvili, knocked out the tournament’s top seed Dominic Thiem in the second round and needed one hour and 56 minutes to reach the stage of the final four. Basilashvili’s performance so far this week ensures that he will reach a new career-high ranking next week, besting his previous mark of No. 86, set in October.

Goffin Wins All-Belgian-Clash

Second favourite David Goffin emerged victorious from the all-Belgian-affair with Steve Darcis, who appeared in his first tour-level quarterfinal since Bastad 2015, winning 6-1, 6-3. The World No. 11 from Rocourt saved all of the five break points he faced, capitalizing on four of his own to finish the encounter in one hour and 13 minutes.

“I started the match really well,” said Goffin. “In the second set it was a close match. I had five break points to save and I also had some opportunities that I didn’t take.

“When you win the first set 6-1, you always expect a reaction from your opponent. I managed it very well. I served and volleyed when I had to win the point and it helped me a lot to win the second set. I’m pleased to be in the semi-finals.”

Goffin will next play Roberto Bautista-Agut from Spain. The defending champion extended his head-to-head-record-lead over Gilles Muller of Luxembourg to 5-1, winning 7-5, 7-6. Bautista-Agut didn’t face a break point and converted one of his seven own chances to advance in one hour and 42 minutes.