French Open 2011: Novak Djokovic Gets Free Ride into Semis as Fognini Retires

The gods have smiled much upon the fortunes of Serbia's son Novak Djokovic and just moments ago dealt him a mighty stroke of luck.

He was scheduled to face Italy's Fabio Fognini—not too great a threat himself, but a hurdle nonetheless—tomorrow, but that matchup will have to be left for another time, as Fognini has announced his retirement from their upcoming clash.

It might never have been a great contest anyway. The way Djokovic is mauling his opposition nowadays, it was most likely the best decision in the Italian's interest—at least, as much as it may be a good decision to retire from a match.

This retirement, as much as we have lost a match at Roland Garros, might only add to the mystique that seems to be surrounding the latter stages of this tournament. With Djokovic now with nearly the whole week to relax and practise, having enjoyed two retirements already this tournament (earlier last week against Victor Hanescu), does he stand all that stronger a claim for a first French Open title?

The rest will indubitably help, although there are the potential adverse side effects of being too withdrawn from a major tournament like this, of becoming too placid, over the next few days.

But the hard yards will be those of his next three potential opponents, Roger Federer, David Ferrer and Gael Monfils, with the latter locked in battle for a place to face the former. Djokovic has beaten all three in his career, most notably Federer already thrice this year. Ferrer and Monfils will be hardy contestants, but the more legitimate epic is likely to ensue from a Djokovic-Federer showdown. What a contest that seems to propose.

It isn't quite a wonderful Parisian dream—one half is already confirmed for that fabulous semifinal clash, while the other half will be decided over the next few days.

How much indeed Djokovic will be loving his days, and certainly that popcorn tomorrow as he lazes back in his hotel room to witness the progress of his next challenger.