Australian Open 2020: Federer Exits With ‘Horrible’ Feeling; Djokovic Waiting In Finals

Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic went head to head for the 50th time in the 2020 Australian Open semifinals. Although the two have faced off in classic bouts, last Thursday’s match ended in a quicker manner. Novak Djokovic took care of Roger Federer in three sets, 7-6, 6-4, 6-3.

While Novak Djokovic won in straight sets, Roger Federer was still able to put up a fight despite the burden he was carrying. The Swiss great came from a five-set thriller against Tennys Sandgren where he resiliently saved seven match points against the American. In addition to fatigue, the 38-year-old said in the post-match conference that he was struggling with an injury.

“Today was horrible, to go through what I did,” Federer said. The 20-time Grand Slam Winner is nursing groin and lower back injury and missed out on practice to further recover in time for the semifinals. Despite the injury, he knew he could still step on the court in a competitive manner. “I still was able to make a match out of it. I did believe there was something that could be done today,” he shared.

Novak Djokovic has high praise for his rival as he applauded Federer’s efforts to compete. “I have to say I respect Roger for coming out tonight. He was obviously hurt and not close to his best in terms of movement,” the Serbian said.

With this win, the former world number 1 is waiting for his Australian Open finals opponent. It will either be Dominic Thiem or Alexander Zverev – both competing in their first hard-court semifinals against each other. “I'm pleased with the way I've been feeling and playing,” said Djokovic as he prepares for this Sunday’s final.

Novak Djokovic has won 16 Grand Slams and is aiming to defend the 2019 Australian Open title. Dominic Thiem and Alexander Zverev, on the other hand, have yet to win a major in tennis. The possible matchup this weekend will either give Djokovic his eighth Australian Open title or a milestone first for either Thiem or Zverev.