Novak Djokovic was relieved to win his first match of this clay court season as he moved into the Geneva quarter-finals.
The Serb produced a clinical performance as he defeated Marton Fucsovics 6-2 6-3 to reach the final eight in Switzerland.
It was the first match since Djokovic split with coach Andy Murray and the Serb was determined to make a point as he completed victory in 75 minutes.
Speaking after the match Djokovic admitted it was nice to ‘break the ice,’ “My first win this season on clay,” the 24-time Grand Slam champion told the ATP website.
“It is great to break the ice in a way. It is a very demanding surface. We all know how tricky it is to play on clay, compared to the other surfaces, you always have to expect an extra ball, an extra shot.
“Here, a bit more altitude, so it helps if you have a good serve. Today I think that was my strongest shot. I had a high percentage of first serves, a lot of free points on the first serve when I needed, to get out of trouble.
“I think it makes life on the court a bit easier, so I am very glad to be able to play the best tennis when needed. All the way through, I was quite focused and pleased with the level of tennis, so hopefully that can continue tomorrow.”
Next up for Djokovic will be Matteo Arnaldi after the Italian defeated Fabian Maroszan 6-3 7-6(3).
The only time they have met was in Madrid where Arnaldi won in straight sets in a comfortable contest.
There were also wins for Taylor Fritz, Hubert Hurkacz and Alexei Popyrin in a rain-affected day in Switzerland.
