Miami: Novak Djokovic recovered from a slow start and had to battle at the end to overcome tenacious Spaniard David Ferrer on Thursday to reach the Miami Masters semi-finals.


Novak Djokovic of Serbia celebrates a point against David Ferrer of Spain during day 11 of the Miami Open Presented by Itau at Crandon Park Tennis Center in Key Biscayne, Florida. Pic/AFP 

Serbia's world number one triumphed 7-5, 7-5 and advanced to a meeting with big-serving American John Isner, who overpowered Japan's world number five Kei Nishikori 6-4, 6-3. Djokovic, the defending champion and winner of the Indian Wells title less than a fortnight ago, came from two breaks down in the first set as Ferrer celebrated his 33rd birthday with a runaway start.