Richard reached the final of Sydney with a 6-4 7-5 win over his compatriot Julien Benneteau.
Richard lost his first service game, but broke back straight away. Things went on serve, but at 5-4 Richard used his chance with three BH winners in that game.The level of play declined in the second set. Richard was broken at 1-1 and it became even worse when he faced three set points at 3-5. At this moment another Richard appeared, gutsy and determined he saved all setpoints, and got the rebreak immediately thereafter.
Richard continued in his positive vein and took his first matchpoint with a lucky net cord to win 7-5.
His opponent will be the winner of Fish/Baghdatis.