Roger Federer Advances To Face Novak Djokovic In Australian Open Semis

While he’s not the powerhouse he once was, Roger Federer is still one of the world’s top tennis players. He easily handled Tomas Berdych on Tuesday to set up a semi-final meeting with Novak Djokovic.

The third seeded Swiss breezed past Berdych in straight sets 7-6 (7-4), 6-2, 6-4. Even in the first set, which went to a tie break, Federer was in control, before allowing his opponent a chance back into the game. From then on, things were straight forward.

“I’m very, very happy. Tomas has caused me a lot of problems over the years,” Federer said after the match. “He’s one of the guys who makes you a better player. He’s beaten me around the world on the biggest courts. I played a great match. I was aggressive, had some variety in there and I’m very happy I was able to play like that.”

He’ll be facing his long-time opponent, Novak Djokovic in the next round after the Serbian dispatched Kei Nishikori in his match. He’s been struggling with unforced errors throughout the tournament, which stand in sharp contrast to Federer’s virtually spotless play. Regardless of form, however, the two have consistently produced great matches over the past decade.

“It’s obvious that [Federer]’s a very complete player,” Djokovic said. “He’s trying lately to come to the net more, kind of shorten up the rallies. I mean, he definitely has the game for that. He’s got a great variation from the backhand side with the slice, short slice. He’s got great defense, amazing offense. He’s very complete. He puts constant pressure on the opponent. You have to be aware at all times. You got to be tough. You got to be concentrated.”

 

Photo: Roger Federer © Clive Brunskill/Getty Images.