Medvedev Downs Fokina To Reach First Indian Wells Semi-Finals 

Daniil Medvedev knocked out Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in the quarter-finals of the Indian Wells to reach his first semi-finals in the California desert.

The former world number one won the tie 6-3 7-5 to extend his winning streak to 18 matches but didn't have a straightforward run to advance.

This time around, it wasn't the "slow" courts or ankle injury he had to overcome, but a bloody right thumb sustained after a fall during the match.

A medical timeout was therefore required in the second set as the four-time ATP Masters 1000 champion had to get his injured thumb bandaged.

Undeterred by his injury, he held firm and then broke to love to secure his place in the last four against Frances Tiafoe, who beat British number one Cameron Norrie in straight sets.

"I absolutely cut it open," Medvedev said of his bloody thumb.

"It was like fully open. I never cut myself with a knife even like this because I don't cook much.

“They cleaned it now. Have a small tape. Should be fine. 

"The question is going to be whether I tape it in two days for the match or not. 

"But that’s not a big problem, because I managed to play well with the tape today. 

"A lot of players tape their fingers and manage to play well so I’m going to be able to do it also.”

He went on to add that he is focused on winning the title despite clinching three titles this year and extending his winning streak.

“Everyone wants to be in the semis of Masters, finals, winning the tournament. 

"So it’s tough because anybody can beat you any moment.

"When you manage to win that many matches in a row, it’s just a pleasant feeling. 

"Three titles. But right now my mind is definitely 100% here in Indian Wells. I want to try to get these last two matches.

“The further you go, the tougher it is, the more confident your opponents are because if you play semis or final, it means that you are feeling good either with the courts or conditions, they earn your confidence, which is more the second one for me. 

"But it’s the same for other three players.

“I’m sure Frances is feeling great right now and playing great. 

"And it’s going to be the same for guys who win tomorrow. 

"But I feel great, and hopefully I can continue this way this season because it’s been a long time I haven’t felt this way.”