Djokovic out of Paris; Murray one win away from world No 1

A struggling Djokovic found it difficult to cope with the pace of spirited Cilic and went down 6-4, 7-6 (2) in one hour and 45 minutes.  It was the Croat’s first win in 15 meetings against Serbian Djokovic and the left-hander will meet American John Isner in Saturday's semi-final.

Djokovic needed to reach the final to retain the top ranking.

Cilic took control of the proceedings with nine aces. The Serbian broke Cilic for the first time in the second set and had a superb chance to serve out for the set but double faulted twice to hand the break to the Croatian.

Second seeded Murray will play big-serving Canadian Milos Raonic in the second semifinal and victory would see the Scot top the rankings for the first time.

"Before the match there were a few more nerves maybe than there was earlier in the week," said Murray. "But once I got out there, I didn't feel any different to any other match.

"If it happens this week, great. But if not, I'm not putting any extra pressure on myself this week because I still think I have an opportunity to do it in the future.

"But obviously I'd love to do it tomorrow if I can."