There was no title at stake and no trophy to lift but Rafa
Nadal's victory over Roger Federer in the Australian Open
semifinals has added another glorious chapter to the greatest
rivalry in tennis.
Roger Federer toppled Argentine giant Juan Martin Del Potro
6-4 6-3 6-2 with some exquisite shot-making to reach the
semifinals of the Australian Open today.
Roger Federer was given just the workout he needed after
getting a walkover when he beat the big-serving Croat Ivo
Karlovic 7-6 7-5 6-3 on Rod Laver Arena on Friday to advance
to the Australian Open fourth round.
Rafael Nadal has criticized Roger Federer for letting other
players "burn themselves" by complaining about tour
conditions while maintaining his good reputation by rarely
making negative comments about tennis.
A stuttering Roger Federer and a rampaging Rafa Nadal need to
clear only one more hurdle before setting up a tantalising
final showdown at the Qatar Open.
Roger Federer staked his claim as one of the favourites for
the Australian Open title later this month by romping into
the second round of the Qatar Open, while rival Rafa Nadal
survived a scare in windswept Doha on Tuesday.
The resurgent Roger Federer is primed to serve up a treat as
the world's premier players jostle for a record $A30 million
in riches over the Australian summer.
Six-time champion Roger Federer has been upset in the
Wimbledon quarterfinals for the second straight year,
squandering a two-set lead for the first time at a Grand Slam
tournament and losing to Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 3-6, 6-7 (3),
6-4, 6-4, 6-4.
