Stanislas Wawrinka is one game away from the semi-finals of the Japan Open after securing a spot in the quarters following a 7-6[1] 6-7[6] 7-5 win over Jeremy Chardy.
The Swiss pro was well matched by his French opponent in the first set, with games going by the way of serve until a tie-break was needed to decide the set.
Despite Chardy's determination to get to the tie break, the Frenchman was unable to hold his serve and Wawrinka wrapped up the opening set to take the lead.
Chardy fought back in the second and was able to secure the tie-break on this occasion to force through a third and final set.
While both sprayed impressive forehands and returns across the court, it was Wawrinka who nabbed the vital break to finish up the contest and book a place in the quarter-finals.
The Swiss player will go up against the winner of the bout between Andy Murray and Lukas Lacko.