“I played a good match yesterday but I definitely played a great match today,” Andy said after defeating Mario Ancic 6-4, 6-4 to earn his place in the semi finals in Lyon. “Mario and I always have close matches. I came into this tournament not having won too many matches in the last two months but I feel I’ve found my form back here this week,” Andy admitted following Friday’s quarterfinals victory.

After a week of solid play, Andy heads into tomorrow’s semifinals with confidence and momentum back on his side. He will next face Fabrice Santoro, often called the “magician” for his cunning style of play and astonishing gets. Andy is fully aware of Santoro’s potential. “I’ve got a match against Fabrice Santoro next, he’s always great fun to watch. I don’t know if there are two more opposite styles of play on tour. It’s going to be the battle of the opposites tomorrow,” Andy predicted.

The two have only met once, back in 2000 when Andy defeated Fabrice at the Legg Mason Tennis Classic in Washington, 4-6, 6-3, 6-3. Despite being 10 years Andy’s senior, Santoro should never be underestimated. With several tricks up his sleeve, Fabrice will be looking to avenge that loss while leaning on the support of the French crowd. Meanwhile, Andy will be determined to create some magic of his own.

Check back to AR.com for more from Lyon. Good luck Andy!