The polarizing Italian is no stranger to theatrics on the tennis court, and Bedene is the latest to take issue after narrowly losing their three-set thriller at the Hamburg European Open.

The Slovenian struck a cameraman, and was ultimately given a code violation for unsportsmanlike conduct, rather than a default.

The 19-year-old prevailed over Aljaz Bedene, 6-4, 7-6 (6), to move within two matches of claiming his first ATP tour title.

Kevin Anderson looked vulnerable in his five-set victory over world No. 149 Ilya Ivashka, and Taylor Fritz should be able to capitalize.

The Slovenian defeated Australian Bernard Tomic in his opener.