Every spectator that witnessed the men’s semi-final between Roger Federer and Jo-Wilfred Tsonga probably should have expected the Swiss maestro to bring his A Game after a somewhat lacklustre showing against Nikolay Davydenko in the quarter-finals.
The world no.1 has often made a habit of backing up a reasonable performance with an outstanding display of Tennis reminiscent of his status as the greatest player of all time.
Much like last year’s Australian Open quarter-final against Juan Martin Del Potro, Federer was in top gear from the outset, producing an array of forehand winners that left the majority of Rod Laver arena in awe.
Although Tsonga should be proud of his second Australian Open semi-final in three years, the way Federer beat him last night would have left the Frenchman wondering if it was worth all the effort.
Prior to his encounter with Federer, Tsonga had already played consecutive five set matches against Spaniard Nicolas Almagro and world No.3 Novak Djokovic.
All in all, the 2008 Australian Open finalist found himself on court for over 13 hours en route to his semi-final against Federer.
And after the opening half hour of play against the 28 year old, one could sense Tsonga had been mentally drained by a player who was once again in irresistible form.
Whatever shot Tsonga hit, Federer returned with aplomb, in particular a whipping forehand winner down the line in the first set that set the tone for the remainder of the evening.
After ninety minutes of some of the finest hitting you will ever see from Federer, one simply has to ask whether the great man will ever dip in form.
His master class against Tsonga suggests that retirement is the furthest thing from Federer’s mind.
Despite being the father of twins, the world No.1 hasn’t detered his commitment to Tennis, as emphasised by his coronation at Roland Garros and Wimbledon last year.
In his post match interview with Jim Courier, Federer said that he is now playing stress free, which was brought on by his maiden victory at last year’s French Open.
Having achieved everything in Tennis and more, it is reasonable to think that Federer may have decided to enjoy the time he has left in his glorious career.
Judging from his performance against Tsonga, Federer will go out firing, and he may just take a few more Grand Slam titles with him before his reign ends.
For Andy Murray’s sake, he will hope its not another Australian Open crown.
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