Novak Djokovic kept his emotions in check following the death of his grandfather to reach the Monte Carlo Masters semi-finals yesterday, beating Dutchman Robin Haase 6-4, 6-2.

The Serb was joined in the last four by seven-time champion Rafael Nadal who eased past Stanislas Wawrinka 7-5, 6-4, winning his 40th consecutive match in the principality, a run dating back to 2005.

“It’s been a tough week,” said Djokovic, after receiving news on Thursday of the passing of his grandfather Vladimir in Serbia.

“I’m just happy that I can play tennis. I’m sure he is supporting me from heaven. I remember him well. But this is life, you have to accept it.”

Djokovic will face Tomas Berdych in the semi-finals after the Czech knocked out Andy Murray 6-7, 6-2, 6-3.

Nadal took his record over Wawrinka to a perfect 8-0.

“Stan was playing well after beating Almagro,” said Nadal.

“I have a lot of respect for his game. I did well to beat him, he’s a great player who is always difficult.”

Djokovic’s concentration wandered during his win in 77 minutes, losing serve in the first game but winning the next four.

He broke Haase to win the opener and took a 4-0 lead in the second only to find himself drifting as he lost the next two service games.

But the top seed prevailed on a second match point with a break of his Dutch opponent as Haase drove a leaping backhand into the net.

Murray could only be frustrated with himself after a performance in which Berdych managed 16 break point chances and converted on five.

Murray had one opportunity on the Czech’s serve but was unable to take advantage.

“There are a lot of things I would have liked to have done better, it takes a lot of time for me to do it (well) on this surface,” said Murray, who was bidding to reach a third semi-final in four years.

“It doesn’t come straightaway. Today is a good match to learn from because I was playing a top player who played very, very well.”