Novak Djokovic beats Roger Federer to reach Paris Masters final

Novak Djokovic describes his thrilling three-set epic semifinal with Roger Federer at the Paris Masters as "one of the best" between the pair.

In their 47th meeting, the Serb defeat Federer 7-6 (8-6) 5-7 7-6 (7-3) to reach Sunday's final.

Djokovic, who is due for world number one on Monday, will face Karen Khachanov after the Russian defeated Dominic Thiem.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Djokovic said "It was a toe-to-toe and a great match."

"We've played some epic games but apparently this is one of the best, in terms of the level of play.

"With the Wimbledon semi-final against Nadal, it's certainly the most exciting match this season." Nole added

Novak Djokovic is now unbeaten in 22 matches and has won Paris Masters four times. A victory today will see him equal Spain's Rafael Nadal on 33 career Masters titles.

The World number three Federer, looking to win his 100th career title, appeared to be back to his best in Saturday's semi-final and looked stronger as the match grew on.

In the first set tie-break, the 37-year-old spurned set point and could only watch as Djokovic took the early advantage, roaring with emotion after a 74 minute epic.

But, with the two still not separated in the second, Djokovic was finally broken by Federer to win the set and restore parity - the first service break of the match.

However, in the deciding set, the Swiss hit several sublime backhand shots down the line but the Serb's serve was dominant, although Djokovic got frustrated as the set wore on, his opponent standing resolute.

The third set tie-break was Federer's undoing as he found himself unable to answer Djokovic, making the Serb to seal victory in three hours and two minutes.

"Obviously, Novak’s on a roll. You can feel it. It came down to a few things here and there at the end" said Federer.

"Above all, I'm excited with my performance. It's better than what I had in Basel - Where I clinched the title and today I played in the semifinals and it required a player like Novak's experience to eliminate me."

In today's final, Djokovic will face Khachanov for the second time after the 22-year-old defeat Thiem 6-4 6-1.

"He's been playing some exciting tennis. He strikes the ball beautifully," Djokovic said.

"I'll need my experience and hopefully I can be at my best before then."

Their 47th meeting was one of their best.

By saving all 12 break points he faced, Federer drove Djokovic to distraction - including one with a volley he wasn't even able to see as the ball reared at him off the net.

However in the final set, Both served commandingly and the only anti-climax was the final tie-break where Federer was error-strewn and Djokovic did not show mercy.

Federer had a superb outing here, especially when you consider he was sceptical whether to compete after securing a 99th title in Basel last week.

Djokovic has played 32 matches since June and won 31 of them. Unquestionably, he is the best in the world right now.