Saturday, September 10, 2011

U.S. Open Semifinal LIVE: Novak Djokovic v Roger Federer

N Djokovic looks to have dropped a level since then. The first point is skewed wide from the Swiss, but he responds with a smash at the net. Nole jumps into the return on Fed’s second serve and forces the Swiss to net. The Tannoy at Arthur Ashe belts out Born To Run between games. But this exhausted pair won't feel much like running now, they've beaten each other up out there.

With tennis rackets. Both players are pouring everything they have into each shot. Djokovic unfurls a thumping serve that Federer can only guide into the deck. The world number one nets a forehand and murmurs sweep around Arthur Ashe Stadium. Federer goes long, though, and then nets a forehand for 40-15.

A forehand winner seals the deal. Remember, Federer let slip two match points before losing in five to Novak at this stage last year. Oh and remember Wimbledon? He lost in five to Tsonga. Whatever else may obtain on the eve of the U.S. Open semifinal clash between Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, this much is certain: Federer is beautifully positioned to collect a little New York-style payback, and to emerge at the end of this Grand Slam as the man who spoiled Djokovic’s almost perfect year.