Murray faces Nishikori, Serena plays Pavlyuchenkova in Brisbane

Brisbane, Australia (4E Sports) – Andy Murray progressed to the semifinals of the ATP Brisbane International after grinding out a 6-4, 7-6 win over Denis Istomin Friday in Pat Rafter Arena.

Murray, who’s looking to sustain his good run of tennis from 2012 to the new season, will try to start the year with a bang by winning the Brisbane International.

Facing Murray in the semis will be up-and-coming Japanese netter Kei Nishikori, who bested Alexandr Dolgopolov 6-4 7-6.

On the women’s side, Serena Williams punched her ticket to the finals after Victoria Azarenka pulled out from the match because of an infected toe.

Williams will be facing Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, who squeaked past Lesia Tsurenko 4-6, 6-1, 6-2.

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