Top-seeded Roger Federer reached the semifinals of the Paris Masters for the first time by defeating Jurgen Melzer of Austria 6-1, 7-6 (4) on Friday.
Federer, who earlier this week called the Parisian indoor tournament his "worst" Masters, had previously lost three times in the quarterfinals.
"I wouldn't say it's a relief, because a relief is something else, but I'm pleased to be in the semis," Federer said. "I knew it was going to be difficult because in the beginning I only had one hour of practice here. But now I feel good and I'm not too tired."
Following victories in Stockholm and Basel, the Swiss star won a 12th consecutive match and delighted the crowd by sending winners all over the court during a 20-minute first set he opened with an ace.