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Summary Novak Djokovic was knocked out of Madrid Masters, losing 7-6 (7/2), 6-3 to Janko Tipsarevic.
Novak Djokovics frustration with the controversial blue clay at the Madrid Masters reached new heights after the world number one was beaten 7-6 6-3 by fellow Serb Janko Tipsarevic in the quarter-finals on Friday (May 11).Djokovic and world number two Rafa Nadal, who was dumped out by Spanish compatriot Fernando Verdasco on Thursday (May 10), have complained bitterly all week about the slippery nature of the showcourt surface.The top-ranked Serb again looked ill at ease as his bid to retain the title he beat Nadal to win in 2011 ended in a whimper while Tipsarevic secured a semi-final meeting with Roger Federer.Djokovic and Nadal have threatened not to return next year unless the traditional red courts are reinstated.Tournament organisers have blamed the slick surface on excessive pressing that prevents the clay from penetrating the hard base.Federer, the 2009 champion, has also expressed his opposition to the blue clay but the Swiss maestro has adapted to the conditions more effectively than the top two players and cruised to a 13th win against Spains David Ferrer in 13 meetings.Watched by Real Madrid soccer players including Cristiano Ronaldo and Xabi Alonso, the 16-times grand slam singles champion sealed a 6-4 6-4 victory with his seventh ace as he continued the pursuit of his fourth title this year.
