Devvarman moves into semis of Winnetka challenger

Somdev Devvarman of India plays a backhand during his men’s singles match against Daniel Munoz-De La Nava of Spain during day one of the French Open at Roland Garros on May 26, 2013 in Paris, France. (Getty Images)

Indian tennis number one Somdev Devvarman booked a spot in the semi-finals of the Nielsen Pro Championship in Winnetka by defeating American second seed Steve Johnson in straight sets 7-5 6-4.

Earlier in the draw, Devvarman had a difficult first round match against qualifier Sekou Bangoura winning in three sets 6-7 (7) 6-3 6-1.

In the second round, Somdev defeated fellow Indian Saketh Myneni in straight sets 6-1 6-2. The other Indian in the draw Yuki Bhambri lost out in the first round losing to fourth seed Tim Smyczek 4-6 6-1 1-6.

Devvarman will now face third seed Jack Sock in the semi-finals. Incidentally, Somdev has paired up with Jack Sock for the doubles event at the Challenger tournament. The Indo-American duo reached the semi-finals of the doubles event beating Jason Jung and Evan King in the quarters in straight sets 6-4 6-4.

Yuki Bhambri along with his Kiwi compatriot Michael Venus have also reached the semi-finals of the doubles event. Bhambri and Venus shocked fourth seeds Alex Bogomolov Jr and Erik Chvojka in the opening round of the tournament.

Devvarman-Sock would face top seeds Cerretani-Guccione in the semi-finals whereas Bhambri-Venus will be up against second seeds Krajicek-Sandgren for a place in the finals.