Shanghai Rolex Masters, China

Men’s Semifinal: [CR1] Novak Djokovic (SRB) vs. [CR3] Roger Federer (SUI)

Federer was able to produce consistent stellar play, despite being tested, to defeat Djokovic.  Federer still has the game although his confidence is somewhat precarious.  That was apparent in his tentative approach shots and his hesitant mid-court game; however, although Federer is stubborn, he is an intelligent player and has a high success rate of working things out in his favor.

He is re-building his aura of invincibility, one win at a time. This win was a big step in that direction because everyone was convinced that no one could stop Djokovic. Federer served with pinpoint accuracy and pace, controlled his backhand errors and won the match in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4.

Djokovic has other priorities at the moment that may have distracted him and contributed to today’s loss.  Once Djokovic regains his focus, it will be indicative of Federer’s growing confidence if he can beat him in consecutive matches.