Novak Djokovic stands on the verge of his fifth ATP Masters 1000 title of the season after defeating Frenchman Jeremy Chardy 6-4 6-4 in a Montreal semi-final.

The world No.1 will wait to learn his opponent as second seed Andy Murray plays Kei Nishikori later after both earned late-night victories on Friday, Murray not finishing until 1:30 a.m. Saturday.

Djokovic remains one victory away from his fourth title in Canada and seventh of the season after winning the Australian Open and Wimbledon plus Masters trophies in Indian Wells, Miami, Monte Carlo and Rome.

Djokovic advanced in 80 minutes to win his 10th match against Chardy without a loss in the series, taking his 52nd match of the season against just three defeats.

A break of serve in each set was enough for the top seed to stay comfortably in control of his 49th-ranked opponent, playing a Masters semi-final for the first time.

“It was good to get a quick win likes this,” said Djokovic.

“I was glad to do it with two breaks. Jeremy played well, but I was totally concentrated and stayed in control of the baseline.

“I’m excited about reaching the final. All of these events are important and it would be great to win another final this season.”

Djokovic will be looking for a 25th Masters 1000 title in the Sunday final. He leads Murray 19-8 and hold a 4-2 record over Nishikori.