Novak
Djokovic meets Roger Federer in the second semi-final today. Both have dropped
one set en route to the semi-finals stage. None of them is likely to tank the
match.
Federer
defeated Djokovic in the last French Open semi-final when Djokovic was at the
peak of his performance having been unbeaten during the year till that stage.
Djokovic is not playing this year at the same level as in 2011 and Federer is
in good form.
Federer is
a fast starter and before the opponent blinks the eye, he gets through with his
break. When up, his serve becomes better and better and he is the one who
starts dictating the pace of the game. However, this time the opponent is the best
player in the world and he is the one who will have a say in how well Federer
will play, or rather be allowed to play. Djokovic has the best return of serve
where the return itself induces error from the server’s racquet. Federer too is
a safe returner of serve and it is difficult to send an unreturnable serve past
him. However, his return from backhand does not win him a point immediately.
Federer
does not provide rhythm to his opponents. His variance of spin and pace causes
problems to all those who thrive on rhythm, including Djokovic. He does not
have any problem of confidence against Djokovic. If he were to choose an
opponent between Djokovic and Nadal, he might go in for the former. Djokovic
has the best combination of attack and defence, forehand and backhand, serve
and return of serve. His court speed, footwork and anticipation are second to
none. He possesses a superior mental strength. His reaction when facing crucial
points is extra aggression which often turns into extra-ordinary aggression.
It is
difficult to predict the outcome easily. If both play at their very best,
Djokovic can pip Federer.
No comments:
Post a Comment