Serbian Novak Djokovic (World No. 2) beat Swiss legend Roger Federer (No. 3) with physical problems 7-6 (7/1), 6-4, 6-3, to qualify for the final of the Australian Open, this Thursday in Melbourne.
Reigning champion and seeking his 17th Grand Slam trophy, Djokovic will play for the title on Sunday with the winner of Friday’s duel between Dominic Thiem (N.5) and Alexander Zverev (N.7).
Djokovic, a title record in the first big of the year, has won all seven finals he has played. If he needs extra motivation, Sunday’s victory would help him regain the world number 1, to the detriment of Rafael Nadal, who was eliminated in the quarterfinals by Thiem.
“My respects to Roger for playing tonight when it was obvious that he was injured and far from his best mobility,” said ‘Djoko’, who will play his 26th Grand Slam final.
The 38-year-old Federer had had adductor problems since their quarterfinal match on Tuesday. This Thursday he asked for medical assistance after the first set.
«It started well and I was quite nervous, it was very important for me to win the first set. Mentally I relaxed, “explained the Serb.
Despite his ailment, Federer started off toned and brave, breaking Djokovic’s serve twice in the first set and having several more options.
The Serbian overcame the bump and dominated a one-way tie break. “Things could have been totally different if he won those break balls,” acknowledged the winner.
«With Roger you know that the level will be very high. He constantly puts the pressure, especially going up to the network and I am not that talented, so I have to try to prolong the exchanges, “he explained.
After missing his chance, Federer was inferior in the next two sets, losing in 2h18, almost half in the first (1h02).
Now Djokovic has 27 wins to 23 losses on his personal record with Federer. AFP.