The first Australian Mens Open semi-final takes place today and pits together two great rivals, Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer. Until his quarter final thrashing of Stanislas Wawrinka, Federer was not showing his best form, losing a few sets to lower ranked opponents and having to dig deep to win some games rather than sail through them with his powerful serve and ground strokes. However his win against his Swiss compatriot was a great showing of his skill when he needs it most. Most tennis pundits had given Stanislas a glimmer of hope before the match, but the 24 year old could not cope with playing his hero. Federer is back and now Rafa Nadal has been knocked out, Roger will be hungrier than ever.
Djokovic is having a good tournament. He also impressed in his quarter final straight sets win over Tomas Berdych. Novak has the skills to win this Grand Slam again, repeating 20008's performance. He is eager to get another Slam under his belt, having come close at the US Open a few times since his win down under. Djokovic will have to keep the balls deep against Roger and keep the Swiss tennis master from dominating the rallies. He will need to take his chance at any short balls he is given and serve a high percentage of first serves.
Head to head Federer leads 13-6 and winning the last three matches all on hardcourts. Djokovic though did win their last Grand Slam match at last years US Open with a 5 set win. That will boost his chances here in Melbourne. Novak also won the the time they played in this very tournament in 2008 when the Serbian went on to win the whole tournament, so fond memories will probably flood back for Novak. This match could go either way. It could be a very close encounter. i am going to go with the best value bet and think Novak can repeat his 2008 and defeat the Swiss ace.
Match Prediction:
Novak Djokovic to win (Low Stakes)
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