MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Kei Nishikori of Japan beat American qualifier Austin Krajicek 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 on Friday night in the quarterfinals of the Memphis Open.
Nishikori, ranked fifth in the world, shook off eight double-faults and struggled with his backhand. But Nishikori improved to 11-1 in Memphis by beating his friend in their first career meeting on tour.
The two-time defending champ will play either No. 3 seed John Isner or Sam Querrey in the semifinals Saturday night.
Donald Young needed three sets to beat Bernard Tomic of Australia 7-6 (8), 4-6, 7-5 earlier Friday. He will play No. 2 seed Kevin Anderson of South Africa, a 6-4, 6-4 winner over sixth-seeded Steve Johnson.
Nishikori fought to hold serve in the sixth game of the third set after falling behind 15-40.
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