As predicted, my Aussie Open semis predictions were way wrong. I completely screwed up Murray's quarter (Sorry, Andy), and didn't have enough faith in Roger Federer to take down Tsonga (Sorry, GOAT). Regardless, we're at the semi-finals of the first major of 2013. Here's some more of my hit and miss predictions as this slam comes to a close.
First semi: Novak Djokovic (1) vs. David Ferrer (4)
Analysis: These two fitness freaks narrowly outlasted their previous opponents, with Djokovic barely sliding by Stan "the man" Wawrinka in the 4th round in 5 fantastic sets of tennis. That match will easily be considered one of the best of the year, no doubt. Ferrer, on the other hand, had to come back from a 2 set deficit to beat Nico Almagro in the quarters, who had more than his fair chances to win the match but couldn't close for some odd reason. Both have played tense 5 setters. Now it'll be interesting to see who handles this huge match with a finals appearance on the line. Will Novak cruise to the finals like usual, or will Ferrer find a way to outlast a 5 set king? We will see tonight, at 3:30 AM EST on ESPN.
Prediction: Djokovic in 4 sets. He's just too good and motivated not to get to the final of arguably his best event.
Second semi: Roger Federer (2) vs. Andy Murray (3)
Analysis: Federer just came off of a 5 set night battle with Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in which it was extremely tight throughout. Murray hasn't even played a night match yet, which is weird, considering he's the one who's most recently won a major. But I guess that's how things are when you're in the same half as Roger. Regardless, Andy has been playing superb, and is the only one left who hasn't dropped a set. It's going to be interesting to see whether it pays off to be battle tested (Federer) or well rested (Murray). This match is going on the day after the Djokovic and Ferrer match at the same time and channel.
Prediction: Murray in 4. Federer had his B game last night, and if he shows up with that again he'll get smoked. He needs to serve better to just have a chance against an improved Murray. Yes, Andy has been broken multiple times throughout the tournament, but his return game is too good right now. It should definitely be the more thrilling of the two semis, though.
And there you have it. My wild guesses as to who will make it through to the finals. Hopefully we get some stunning tennis from these 4 men. The courts do seem to be playing quicker, so I feel like we'll get some more offensive and aggressive tactics from them all. Should be fun!
Photo via worldtennismagazine
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