Djokovic reaches Cincinnati semi-finals

Novak Djokovic, from Serbia, celebrates after he defeated Gael Monfils, from France, 3-6, 6-4, 6-3, in a quarterfinal match at the Western & Southern Open tennis tournament, Friday, Aug. 19, 2011 in Mason, Ohio. (AP Photo/Al Behrman)

CINCINNATI — World No. 1 Novak Djokovic reached the semi-finals of the Cincinnati hardcourt tournament Friday by rallying to beat Frenchman Gael Monfils 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 on Friday.

Djokovic improved his season record to a superb 56-1 as he clinched the match when Monfils hammered a deep forehand into the net.

Monfils made Djokovic work for the win as the Frenchman started quickly, hammering four aces to take the first set.

He continued his stellar play in the second set, breaking Djokovic’s serve in the sixth game.

Djokovic advances to the semis where he will face eighth seeded Tomas Berdych.