Djokovic hits his stride as he courts history

Serbian ace faces Sinner in blockbuster French Open semifinal in pursuit of record-breaking 25th major singles title

A crucial moment arrived more than 2 1/2 hours into Novak Djokovic's 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 French Open quarterfinal victory over Alexander Zverev. It was the fourth set, and Djokovic led, but Zverev was in possession of a break point and a chance to get back into Wednesday's match.

Djokovic hit a barrage of drop shots to beat Zverev for his 101st victory at Roland Garros, and the Serbian said his hand was forced by windy conditions that left him feeling like he had two opponents.

"Against the wind, especially that side where I was playing the last game, I felt the wind increased in the last few games," Djokovic told reporters.