Docalex007
Hall of Fame
With the knowledge that Nadal is out of the tournament, I reckon this will give Roger a mental edge going into his semi against Djokovic, knowing that the only players left standing in his way to a 17th Slam win are players he's comfortable with.
Sure, Djokovic beat Fed at the USO last year in the semis... BUT, main difference here being Federer knows BEFORE this match that his path is clear (no Nadal), this should give him a clear mind and allow himself to play freely without lingering doubts in the back of his mind. I think this is a good sign.
Also Murray didn't play spectacularly in his quarter... so Murray in the final isn't a foregone conclusion. If he is, Federer will take him out as he'll be in Finals mode most likely (which basically means ... you know what )
Federer seems to play his best tennis at the very end of a slam.. and here we are, *without* his arch rival standing in his way to a 5th AO victory. His chances look good. Djokovic could beat Fed, not saying he can't, but Federer must be liking his position right now.
Sure, Djokovic beat Fed at the USO last year in the semis... BUT, main difference here being Federer knows BEFORE this match that his path is clear (no Nadal), this should give him a clear mind and allow himself to play freely without lingering doubts in the back of his mind. I think this is a good sign.
Also Murray didn't play spectacularly in his quarter... so Murray in the final isn't a foregone conclusion. If he is, Federer will take him out as he'll be in Finals mode most likely (which basically means ... you know what )
Federer seems to play his best tennis at the very end of a slam.. and here we are, *without* his arch rival standing in his way to a 5th AO victory. His chances look good. Djokovic could beat Fed, not saying he can't, but Federer must be liking his position right now.