Novak Djokovic has advanced through to the last 16 of the Cincinnati Open after defeating Gilles Simon in three sets.
The world number one is looking for an improved showing after falling at the last-16 stage in the Rogers Cup, and while he under-performed against the Frenchman, he will be happy to reach the next stage.
It was Simon who struck first in the opening set before Djokovic secured two breaks of serve as his opponent failed to capitalise on his fast start.
However, Simon took advantage off the Djokovic second serve in the next, allowing the Serbian just three points behind that delivery to take the contest to a decider.
Both held serve early on in the third, but Djokovic recorded the sole break in the set to run out a 6-3 4-6 6-4 winner.
Djokovic will now play Tommy Robredo or Sam Querrey in the next round.
Darren Plant
