Wednesday 23 November 2011

Awesome Federer destroys Nadal

Roger Federer produced an incredible performance to beat Rafael Nadal, 6-3 6-0 and cement his place in the semi-finals of the ATP World Tour Finals.  Federer made the breakthrough at 2-2 in the first set where he raised his game producing one sweet forehand and secured the break on an epic rally.  Federer continued to assert his dominance throughout the first set with some aggressive striking and was serving at 80% first serves.  I liked Mark Petchey's comment that Federer in the 1st set was "an avalanche of brilliance"!

I didn't think it was possible but Federer was even more dominant in the second set with some patient, yet aggressive play.  Federer really laid into the Nadal second serve and broke at the first opportunity with a tremendous running forehand.  Nadal did not play badly however he was slightly passive at times and Federer gave him no chances to get a foothold in the match.  In the last year, we have seen Federer go walkabouts in  the middle of his matches, but yesterday he was on the money and was focused throughout.  Federer wrapped off the one hour contest with ease producing terrific stats of 28 winners to just 6 unforced errors.  This was the best I had seen Federer play in the last couple of years and although the match was over all too quickly, it was enjoyable to watch a masterclass.  

In the other match in Group B, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga saw off Mardy Fish, 7-6 6-1 with a powerful performance. Tsonga will now square off with Rafael Nadal on Thursday night; the winner of this match will join Federer in the semi-finals.  I fancy a very close match and i'm going to give the edge to Nadal despite last nights drubbing.

2 comments:

  1. Yup it was no doubt a good amtch to watch. Really happy to see Federer through to the semis. I hope he goes on to lift the trophy. Nice write up James :)

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  2. Thanks again :) Federer is looking good for the title!

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