Murray loses to Tipsarevic in Abu Dhabi

In Thursday's other match, fifth-ranked David Ferrer swept aside No. 6 Tomas Berdych 6-2, 6-4 to set up a semifinal against top-ranked Novak Djokovic, who won the tournament last year.

Ferrer easily won the first set after jumping out to a 5-0 lead and broke Berdych early in the second to clinch the win.

"I played well today and I was surprised as it has been a long time without playing a competition," Ferrer said.

"It's a fast court and this was the first time I played at night but I played a good game. I will enjoy a victory for now but tomorrow I will have to play my best against Novak."