John Isner is convinced that he has what it takes to see off world number two Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals of the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells later today.
The big-hitting American booked his place in the last four of the Californian event by beating Ernests Gulbis in straight sets on Friday.
Isner struck 13 aces and won 81% of points behind his first serve as he prevailed by winning two tie-breaks, edging the first 7-4 before taking the second 7-3.
"I certainly hit my biggest serves in those tiebreakers," Isner told reporters after the match.
"I think, especially in the second set one, I was going after it with everything I had. They found their mark and it helped a lot."
Isner defeated Djokovic in the semi-finals in Indian Wells in 2012 and also beat the six-time Grand Slam champion at the Cincinnati Masters last year.
"I believe I can win," Isner added. "I have done it against this guy before on this court right here in this exact same situation two years ago."
If Isner can record a third career win over Djokovic, then he will face either Roger Federer or Alexandr Dolgopolov in the final.
Robert Summerscales
