Sports
DJOKOVIC was the heavy favourite to beat his long-time rival in what was their 50th meeting.
Questions were raised about Federer’s fitness going into the match, having struggled with a groin problem in his epic quarter-final against Tennys Sandgren.
And he needed an off-court medical timeout, presumably for the same problem, at the end of the first set.
Djokovic turned into his ruthless best in the second set after a tight opener, giving away little on his serve and applying serious pressure on his opponent.
After Federer survived break points in the second and sixth games, Djokovic took his first chance in the 10th, scampering to pick up a drop-shot and scoop away sharply cross-court.
That silenced many in the 15,000 crowd on Rod Laver Arena who were supporting Federer.
But not the noisy bunch of Serbs sat behind his player box, to where he shot a steely side-glance as he clenched a fist in celebration.
From that point it was difficult to envisage a comeback for Federer, who somehow came through five-set matches against third-round opponent John Millman and then Sandgren.
Djokovic picked his moment to break in the third set, finishing off a precise point with a wonderful forehand winner which kissed the sideline for a 4-2 lead.
Federer said after beating Sandgren he would always believe in miracles until defeat was confirmed.
This time it would have been a miraculous escape against someone of Djokovic’s class.
Federer valiantly levelled at 30-30 as Djokovic tried to serve out victory, only for the Serb to refocus and seal victory in two hours and 18 minutes.
More soon.
BBCSport
– Jan. 30, 2020 @ 12:35 GMT |
Tags: Ruthless Djokovic proves too strong
