Djokovic beats Wawrinka

MONTE CARLO: Novak Djokovic engineered a comeback to post his fifth straight win over Stanislas Wawrinka, advancing 4-6, 6-1, 6-3 into the final of the Monte Carlo Open today.

Wawrinka was beaten 11 months ago by Djokovic in the final of Rome, a match where the Swiss admitted he went in not believing in his chances. That was not the case on Saturday, with Wawrinka winning the opening set on a break but failing to push his advantage as world No 3 Djokovic levelled with a quick-fire second.

Wawrinka lost an early break in the final set, with Djokovic breaking back for 1-2 and securing a 3-2 lead which took him home after the 13th seed saved two match points. Djokovic now leads in the series 6-2 with his only two defeats against Wawrinka coming in 2006.

Djokovic's win helps him fight off a charge from No 4 Andy Murray in the rankings chase.