Djokovic happy after fighting past Fucsovics

Marton Fucsovics gave Novak Djokovic a real test in Doha, prompting the world number one to say: "I had to fight my way through."

World number one Novak Djokovic.

Novak Djokovic acknowledged he had enjoyed some good fortune when overcoming Marton Fucsovics to reach the Qatar Open quarter-finals on Wednesday.

World number 36 Fucsovics put up an impressive showing against his top-ranked opponent and deservedly claimed the opening set.

However, Djokovic levelled the match when his opponent stopped play on set point for a misguided HawkEye challenge and Fucsovics' level dipped thereafter as the top seed prevailed 4-6 6-4 6-1 to stay on track for a third title in Doha.

"For most of the first two sets actually, he was the better player," said Djokovic, who went on to win a second doubles match in succession with his brother Marko, in an on-court interview.

Read: Djokovic rallies to overcome impressive Fucsovics in Doha

"I was kind of in a corner and I had to find my way and fight my way through. Luckily I made that break [leading 5-4 in the second set]. I was lucky to hit the line – it was a very close call and that was the turning point."

Next up for Djokovic, who has won his last 12 matches in Qatar, is a meeting with Nikoloz Basilashvili after the Georgian overcame Andrey Rublev 6-3 6-4.

Stan Wawrinka is a potential semi-final opponent for Djokovic. The Swiss beat Nicolas Jarry in straight sets on Wednesday, while there were also wins for Roberto Bautista Agut, Dusan Lajovic and Pierre-Hugues Herbert.

Tomas Berdych continued his comeback from injury with a battling three-sets win over Fernando Verdasco and Marco Cecchinato was handed a walkover when Guido Pella withdrew.