0212: Well, that turned out to be a much tighter and more gripping contest that had looked likely. Credit to Murray for fighting back and suggesting he could push it to a fifth. Four Grand Slam semis in the same year is a fantastic achievement but at the moment, the rankings look pretty much spot on. He's the fourth best player in the world. On Monday, we get the chance to see if Nadal is ready to topple the world number one, Novak Djokovic. Should be a cracker. Check back later/tomorrow for news of the women's semi-finals, and we'll be back for the final at 2100 BST tonight (Sunday). Night.
Nadal 6-4 6-2 3-6 6-2 Murray Playing Nadal is hard enough, playing him with a dodgy back is too much. Murray is in real discomfort as he falls to 0-30 and a backhand into the net brings up
three match points for Nadal.... and Murray puts a backhand wide. Nadal punches the air and there's the familiar cordial hug at the net with the beaten Murray.
RAFAEL NADAL BEATS ANDY MURRAY 6-4 6-2 3-6 6-2 TO REACH THE US OPEN FINAL
manch1985 on Twitter:
"This really is an awesome effort from Murray. Nadal is having to beat him, unlike the Wimbledon semi where it all fell apart #BBCTennis"
Nadal 6-4 6-2 3-6 5-2 Murray * Murray gets the crowd going with a swashbuckling run to collect a drop shot and whip over a forehand. He then whips up the New York crowd, who are loving this late fight from the Scot, but Nadal remains ice cool and gets to 40-15 with some ruthless hitting before serving his way to the game.
* Nadal 6-4 6-2 3-6 4-2 Murray Murray is back in self-analysis mode in his baseline surgery as Nadal opens with a blistering forehand winner, before Murray blazes a forehand wide. It's 0-30, and the champion hunts down a Murray mid-court shot and whips a forehand down the line. We then get a classic Rafa fist pump. It's 0-40 and
three break points.... Nadal nets on the first and Murray hits a huge forehand on the second that just clips the baseline, and another to get to deuce. He looks like he has real problems with his back but battles through with five points in a row to stay alive in this match. Great effort.
FromCharlie, Bristol, via text: "Am doing a half marathon at 9am but can't stop watching the tennis! Come on andy!!"
Nadal 6-4 6-2 3-6 4-1 Murray * Nadal is back in the groove on serve and swiftly moves to 40-0, but after losing his timing for a minute or so Murray sweeps a backhand down the line to get back to 40-30. It's too late to save this game though and Nadal is closing in.
* Nadal 6-4 6-2 3-6 3-1 Murray Nadal fancies this one when he forces Murray to net for 0-30. The Scot plays a magnificent backhand volley to cut the deficit but then puts the same shot into the net for 15-40.
Break point..... big serve, and Murray moves forward again on a key point to swipe away a forehand volley. He really can take plenty from this match whatever the result, namely that there is a real benefit to coming off the baseline more often. Back to the action and Murray double-faults to offer up
break point three.... he seems distracted by a sweatband and goes to the chair to change it, drawing a comment from the umpire that he doesn't like. Possibly distracted, Murray then fires a mid-court forehand long, very similar to the shot he missed against Nadal at Wimbledon that marked the beginning of the end.
Nadal 6-4 6-2 3-6 2-1 Murray * Murray plays a blinder of a backhand lob but doesn't follow it into the net, and he ends up netting a forehand from the baseline. A wasted chance, all the more so when he hits a brilliant backhand return as he remains 40-15 down. Nadal then sends a backhand long and Murray charges the net after breaking a string to punch away the volley. Deuce, and Murray wallops a backhand which draws the error.
Break point.... but the momentum is lost when Murray nets a backhand. Brilliant stuff from both men at the moment and Nadal survives a 27-shot rally when Murray nets, but the Briton is the aggressor right now. Murray pulls a forehand wide and Nadal wins a great game.
From Darrell in Reading via text: "I can't remember a better two mens semi finals in a grand slam, am loving the aggression Andy showed in the second half of that set.... COME ON ANDY!"
* Nadal 6-4 6-2 3-6 1-1 Murray Murray raises a laugh from the crowd when he boots a loose ball back over the net, and he looks in great nick as he moves forward again behind a backhand for 40-0. Murray then hammers a forehand into the corner and this feels like a real contest now.
Nadal 6-4 6-2 3-6 1-0 Murray * Murray is back having changed his black shorts for a white pair, and with the black socks there's more than a hint of Manchester United about his look now. Nadal, sporting an Everton-inspired outfit, looks all business as he slides over a drop shot and then hits an ace down the middle for a love hold.
0121: Murray has headed off court for a moment, Nadal goes for the change of shirt.
* Nadal 6-4 6-2 3-6 Murray An ace out wide and a serve-volley make for a great start to the game for Murray, and he's unlucky to catch the top of the tape with a zinger of a forehand. Murray is right on top of the baseline now and Nadal is struggling to cope with the increased pace.
Two set points.... Murray plays a fairly dodgy drop shot and Nadal sweeps in and returns the compliment to leave the Briton flat-footed. Nadal then plays a great forehand which Murray cannot control and it's deuce. Pressure on, and again Murray moves into the net to pluck a high backhand volley out of the air.
Set point number three.... and a big serve does the job. Fist pumping, positivity, bristling with energy. And that's just me.
Nadal 6-4 6-2 3-5 Murray * Nadal fails to chase down a Murray angled volley and it's 15-30. He steps in and plays a superb backhand return, before thumping away a forehand.
Two break points.... Murray is really hitting through everything now and it's Nadal who's scrambling around behind the baseline, only able to lob a forehand over the baseline. Murray to serve for the set....
* Nadal 6-4 6-2 3-4 Murray Murray sends an ace down the 'T' for 40-15 but the relentless Nadal keeps going, firing a backhand down the line that has the Briton looking a little heavy-legged for the first time. He rouses himself to hit another ace and he's right in this set, at the very least.
Update -
Sam Stosur beats Angelique Kerber 6-3 2-6 6-2 to reach her first US Open final. And, of course, Uncle Jessie. My second favourite Dukes of Hazzard character.
Nadal 6-4 6-2 3-3 Murray * Murray makes a great running forehand pass, his second of the evening, and Nadal then throws in his first double-fault of the day to slip to 15-30. It's a chance but Murray puts a backhand long, and Nadal then wins a gruelling rally. Murray attempts to eat his own fist in frustration, as you do. Another great rally follows and we're getting them regularly now, Nadal winning this one with a brilliant angled forehand.
From gef05 on Twitter:
"#bbctennis I don't see people being disparaging toward Murray. I see frustration that known flaws are no better than they ever were."
* Nadal 6-4 6-2 2-3 Murray It's a point of view, and they're all welcome. Nadal whips a forehand pass down the line after Murray plays an edgy volley but the Scot finds a good serve for 30-15, and then attacks the net to flick away a high backhand volley. Balletic stuff. Murray brings Nadal in with a drop shot on game point and it's good enough. "That was a nice game from Murray - keep that up," says
5 live's Jonathan Overend.
From andyyyyyy on Twitter:
"#BBCTennis Is it any surprise that everyone's on Murray's back when your commentary is so disparaging?"
Nadal 6-4 6-2 2-2 Murray * Correction, Murray got the first set against Nadal at Wimbledon - one of his best sets of the year, in fact. Murray has a chance at 0-30 but Nadal rocks back and fires a huge forehand winner, and the Briton then hits a return that he describes as "awful". Murray dusts himself down and moves in behind a backhand, making Nadal go for too much with the attempted pass.
Break point.... but Nadal finds a service winner and holds. "Awful returning," insists Murray.
* Nadal 6-4 6-2 1-2 Murray This is punishing stuff now, Nadal winning a 34-shot rally with a forehand winner to get to 15-30. Murray backs up a serve with a crunching forehand into the corner for 30-30, but then hits the first double-fault of the day.
Break point..... and Murray nets.
From Rossco Cee, Dundee, via text: " I really do believe Murray to win in 5! His mental approach has changed so much before this match! Just look at the Haase match for some evidence. Looked like an upset all the way and came back, albeit Nadal is a completely different animal. Go out and attack! Nothing to lose now! "
From Amy via text: " Do I stay up cheering Murray on or do I sleep in order to get up to watch Ireland play rugby later this morning?? Damn, I'm hooked, "Come on, Murray!" Sleep is overrated anyway."
Nadal 6-4 6-2 0-2 Murray * OK, here we go, Nadal suffers his first lapse of the night and falls to 0-40, facing
three break points.... the champion plays a brilliant serve-volley and then a big serve. A huge, huge 28-shot rally follows as Nadal scrambles brilliantly to stay in it until Murray final steps in and makes a backhand volley. Five-setter, anyone? Who's with me?
* Nadal 6-4 6-2 0-1 Murray Certainly don't mean to disrespect Murray and Beryl makes a good point - he's the world number four and the rankings look pretty spot on this year. He repeatedly gets to his seeding at Slams. And this one isn't over, Murray opening the third set with a love hold.
* Nadal 6-4 6-2 0-1 Murray Certainly don't mean to disrespect Murray and Beryl makes a good point - he's the world number four and the rankings look pretty spot on this year. He repeatedly gets to his seeding at Slams. And this one isn't over, Murray opening the third set with a love hold.
From Beryl via text: "Don't diss a guy who consistently plays up to or above his ranking."
From anon via text: "Now is not the time to lose faith! He's got to win one eventually! Muzza in 5! "
Nadal 6-4 6-2 Murray * Murray fires a disconsolate return wide and Nadal serves his way to 40-0 and
three set points... Murray nets on the first, Nadal pumps his fist, and we're looking very much at a third straight-sets win for the Spaniard over the Briton in Grand Slam semi-finals this year.
* Nadal 6-4 5-2 Murray Murray bunts a forehand long to fall 15-30 down and looks to the heavens in despair. A backhand follows a similar path and the strings of his racquet get a pounding.
Two break points.... Nadal misses on the first, Murray plays a good forehand on the second, but he mishits the next one and it's
break point three.... Nadal goes wide under pressure. Murray plays a great point but Nadal comes up with a sensational forehand down the line for
break point four.... and Murray goes long. An increasingly frustrated Murray is up to 28 unforced errors, compared to 12 from Nadal.
Nadal 6-4 4-2 Murray * Nadal holds to 15 after Murray misses with a couple of forehands and so far this is not looking like matching up to the first semi-final for drama. Update - Kerber is 4-1 up in the second set against Stosur, and Fester and Buck join the list of uncles.
From anon via text: "I had a text published this time last year saying murray needs a sports psychologist to solve these issues, seems he's gone and employed himself? When will he learn the self deprecating manner is a hindrance not a help."
From pp0u20e8 on Twitter:
"I wonder if Murray's opponents see him yelling at himself and smile inside. It generally means they're doing OK against him. #BBCTennis"
* Nadal 6-4 3-2 Murray Murray's constant conversation with himself is becoming quite gripping, it reminds me of Becker's spectacular meltdown when he lost to Stich at Wimbledon 20 years ago. Although that was in German, so I didn't understand much of it. Murray nets an off-forehand and it's 30-40,
break point.... but Britain's number one plays a fine volley. "What was that shot?" says Murray after he puts a forehand in the net and it's
break point again.... and this time Murray steers an awkward volley into the tramlines.
Nadal 6-4 2-2 Murray * "Why are you doing the opposite of what you've been practising," says Murray, although unless he's been practising standing 10 feet outside the tramlines to receive serve he'd never have got to that one. It brings Nadal back to 30-30 and he serves his way to the game. "I know how to play this guy, I know how to," says.... you know who.
* Nadal 6-4 1-2 Murray An ace is a nice start to the game for Murray but a loose forehand sees him in danger once again at 30-30. Murray stays positive and attacks the net, dropping a forehand volley into the open court, before the point of the match goes his way when he chases down a lob and plays a running forehand pass. Quick update - Sam Stosur has taken the first set 6-3 against Angelique Kerber, and Tom Cobbley, Sam and The Man From have joined Toni in the list of great uncles.
Nadal 6-4 1-1 Murray * Nicely done by Nadal, a forehand hooked down the line and followed up with a drop volley for 30-15. Murray plays a heavy forehand that catches the baseline and gets him to 30-30. A net cord sits up for Murray and he pounds the forehand into the corner for
break point.... second serve.... Murray nets the return! Nadal then puts a forehand long and it's
break point number two.... great point from Nadal, who cracks a forehand and moves in to stick away the overhead. Murray steps in and swats away an off-forehand winner and it's a
third break point.... and he nets with a very, very makeable forehand down the line. Nadal holds and that was a great chance missed for Murray, who smacks his racquet into the sole of hs shoe and has to change it. The racquet, not the shoe.
2350: "That's why we all watch sports, isn't it?" says
Roger Federer after his crushing defeat by Novak Djokovic. "Because we don't know the outcome and everybody has a chance, and until the very moment it can still turn. That's what we love about the sport, but it's also very cruel and tough sometimes. It got me today."
* Nadal 6-4 0-1 Murray Uncle Albert - good shout. Murray has a go at himself after an error makes it 30-30 and he's struggling on serve once again. It seems to jolt him into action and a 129mph ace down the middle prompts a "C'mon!" before he arrows a forehand down the line. Good stuff.
2342: Murray has played Nadal in two Slam semis already this year and around both he used his BBC Sport column to talk about the tactics of playing the world number two.
In Paris, he said:
"Patience is the key when you play Rafa. His ball is very heavy, so it's really difficult to go for shots straight off the bat, you need to work the ball very well and when you get the right opportunity - go for it." And
a few weeks later after defeat at Wimbledon,
Murray said: "Normally I've been better at playing a bit more patiently. That's been a big part of my game. This time I was a bit impatient once he started to come back. When I made a few more mistakes, I needed to rein it in a little bit. I didn't do that." Time to step it up?
Nadal 6-4 Murray * Nadal is looking solid at 30-0 but then puts a routine backhand into the net. A long rally ensues but Murray slices a backhand into the net and it's
two set points for Nadal.... Murray nets a forehand after Nadal deals comfortably with everything thrown at him. All a bit predictable and Murray needs to inject some pace into this match, get his feet moving.
2336: "Every match we've played in the past has always been fairly tight," says Brit junior
Oli Golding after beating compatriot George Morgan 6-0 7-6 to reach the boy's final. "We've played a lot in practice and he'd win one, I'd win one but I just felt like I couldn't miss a ball in the beginning. I've been in a couple of (Grand Slam) doubles finals before and one singles semi so it's great to get to my first final."
* Nadal 5-4 Murray Uncle Toni claps nervously in the stands - has anyone else ever taken the prefix 'uncle' and so impressively made it his own? Bulgaria? Ben? Murray plays a decent service game and finishes it off with a beauty of a forehand down the line.
Nadal 5-3 Murray * Nadal hammers a forehand down the line from deep, wide and yonder. Murray glares at nothing in particular. The defending champion is thumping down some heavy serves and he holds to love. Over on Grandstand, Sam Stosur leads Angelique Kerber 3-1 in the first of the women's semis. And for those asking about Murray's first-serve percentage, it's currently 43%.
From paul_staveley on Twitter:
"#bbctennis If Murray keeps displaying this kind of anger mid-game, Nadal is going to absolutely decimate him. Can't show weakness v Rafa!"
* Nadal 4-3 Murray Nadal plays a beautiful backhand lob on the opening point that prompts a bit more on-court commentary from Murray. A wayward backhand follows and he's 0-30 for the third time. "You cannot give a shark like Nadal that many chances to get you," says
Jeff Tarango on 5 live. Murray nets a straightforward forehand and it's
three break points for Nadal..... Murray saves the first with a good backhand down the line and the second with a cracker cross-court, but Nadal converts the third with a heavy forehand that Murray frames. "I feeeelllll good," sings James Brown.
Nadal 3-3 Murray * Murray is looking good at 0-15 and dominating the following rally but as he moves to come in and finish the point, his sliced approach hits the net. A punchy cross-court backhand takes the Brit to 15-30 before Nadal levels with a good serve. Still half a chance for Murray, and it's a whole chance when Nadal slices into the net.
Break point.... Nadal dominates the rally and Murray swings at an optimstic backhand that goes wide. "Awful shot, terrible selection," says Murray. Bit harsh. He goes on to suggest that every time he plays against Nadal a similar thing happens, only in slightly more colourful language. Someone might want to move that mic. Nadal holds after three deuces with a brilliant forehand down the line. He hit about 50 of them past Roddick yesterday.
Mike p via text: "Cmon Andy go get him and make it quick getting late here."
Nigel from Bath via text: "If it rains during the Murray match, is it possible to use the duckworth Lewis system ?"
* Nadal 2-3 Murray Murray wins a terrific opening point by literally jumping into a cross-court backhand after a pulsating rally. "That just shows the need to hit the lines on every shot against Nadal," says
Jonathan Overend on 5 live. An ace takes Murray to 40-0 and a heavy forehand does the job.
Nadal 2-2 Murray * Nadal kicks off the game with a cheeky drop shot but at 30-0 there's a bit of overrule shenanigans. The point is replayed and Murray's scrambled forehand drifts wide. Nadal swings a serve out wide and that's another solid hold. Just realised I'm currently eating paella after earlier having porridge - no culinary bias there.
* Nadal 1-2 Murray Nadal moves to 0-30 with an off-forehand into Murray's forehand - his strength to Murray's weakness, could be a key shot today. A big Murray serve stops the rot, and he then gets a bit lucky when Nadal swipes a makeable pass into the net. A fizzing Murray cross-court backhand earns him game point before Nadal climbs all over an 87mph second serve. Deuce, and the Spaniard puts a regulation forehand over the baseline, but Murray nets a backhand. Another error and it's
break point for Nadal... but he puts a backhand long. Murray comes through after three deuces. Three games, 17 minutes....
From sowton on Twitter:
"#BBCTennis Nadal to continue yesterday's form, three sets, amazing final coming. Shame we can't have Feds vs Murray 3rd place match."
Nadal 1-1 Murray * Tasty start from Murray, who lifts a lob volley over Nadal and then moves in to feather over a drop volley. Nadal responds with four points in a row, the calm after the first semi-final storm at the moment.
* Nadal 0-1 Murray
Murray and Nadal have met 16 times
and the Spaniard has won 12 of them, and he makes a good start this time with a big forehand taking him to 0-30 after a lengthy rally. Murray is thankful to see him frame a backhand and the Scot follows up with a forehand, an ace and another forehand for a good hold.
* denotes next to serve 2245: Murray to serve....
Paul from leamington via text: "Now all we need is for murray to win easily in 3 sets so he's nice and fresh to face a tired Djokovic!"
2239: I don't know about you but I could do with a lie down afer that first semi-final, amazing stuff. A manual refresh will hopefully refresh both your page and my mind. Murray and Nadal are knocking up on Ashe, the Briton in Red and the Spaniard in blue.
NOVAK DJOKOVIC: "I know both players, I'm going to sit in my chair and enjoy their match. Hopefully they will play as long as we did. Both are fantastic players and, whoever it is, hopefully we can play an exciting match on Monday."
2230: So Djokovic is through to his third US Open final, but who will he face in Monday's showpiece? As if we hadn't already enjoyed enough drama for one night...
Andy Murray v Rafael Nadal.
Djokovic is bidding to win the US Open for the first time
|
NOVAK DJOKOVIC: "That's my biggest win this year and one of the biggest of my career. Roger was in control but I switched gear and managed to play much better in the last three sets. Last year was a similar situation - he had two match points and I hit a forehand as hard as I could. I took a gamble and it paid off. The crowd was amazing. This is the biggest stadium in our sport. The US Open is a special Grand Slam because of the noise on this court. Thank you."
NOVAK DJOKOVIC BEATS ROGER FEDERER TO REACH THE US OPEN FINAL Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 6-2 7-5 FedererLong from Federer. Net from Djokovic. 15-15. Who blinks first? Roger slices a simple backhand service return into the net. Dreadful miss. Crosscourt forehand from Djokovic... winner! Feds so slow to that. Fist-pumps from the world number one.
Two match points... serve to the backhand again.... return sails... LONG! That's it. Djokovic wins. WHAT. A. MATCH.
*Denotes next server
Laura Robson on Twitter:
"P Diddy high fiving people in Djokovic's box... I just don't know what's going on. Great match."
*Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 6-2 6-5 FedererFederer nets a backhand for 15-30 but then comes point of the match... the rally goes on... and on... and on... until Novak puts a forehand on the line, Roger loops it back and the world number one drives a winner.
Two break points... inside-out FOREHAND WINNER!!! Djokovic's support team are going bonkers. He cups his ear to captivated crowd. He's about to serve for the match.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 6-2 5-5 Federer*The world number one nets a forehand and murmurs sweep around Arthur Ashe Stadium. Federer goes long, though, and then nets a forehand for 40-15. A forehand winner seals the deal. Remember, Federer let slip two match points before losing in five to Novak at this stage last year. Oh and remember Wimbledon? He lost in five to Tsonga - the only time he has ever let slip a two-set lead at a Grand Slam. Just saying...
*Denotes next server
Anne Keothavong on Twitter:
"Geez! There's a lot of shouting at the TV going on in the Keothavong household. Is it going to be Federer or Djokovic??"
*Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 6-2 4-5 FedererDjokovic chucks a tame forehand wide for 30-15. Lobs his baseball cap away in disgust. Huge serve from Federer.
Two match points... UNBELIEVABLE forehand winner from Djokovic... crowd going wild... Novak asks them for more noise -
more noise?! Second chance... Federer nets! And then blazes a forehand wide...
break-back point.... saved with an ace down the 'T'. But here's a
second break-back point... DOUBLE-FAULT! We're back on serve. Can't quite believe what I've just seen.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 6-2 3-5 Federer*A beautiful Federer winner precedes a Djokovic forehand into the net. What Djokovic doesn't want to do here is double-fault. Oops...
Three break points. Then comes a forehand long.
Federer breaks! Victory is within his grasp! Incredible stuff. Djoko beat the Swiss in five at this stage last year. It's time for a role reversal.
*Denotes next server
Andrew via text on 81111: "Federer needs to keep the 1-2-3 punch forehand kicker, which is going nicely for him on serve right now, and keep those frame mishit balls at bay! Then he has a chance here!"
*Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 6-2 3-4 FedererAce out wide, service return into the net and Roger finds himself 40-0 to the good. Now Djoko lifts a return beyond the baseline. Applause from wife Mirka. Celebrations from the crowd. "This is when you start to see the benefits of serving first in a deciding set," argues
David Felgate on
5 live sports extra.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 6-2 3-3 Federer*An untimely double-fault - Djokovic's sixth so far - brings Federer to 15-15 but the Swiss master goes long and then Nole comes up with a stupendous crosscourt forehand winner. The sun's gone in. The heat has dropped. The players look fresh. Feds runs round a forehand to get back to 40-30, only for Djokovic to unleash the tastiest of backhand down the line. On we go...
*Denotes next server *Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 6-2 2-3 FedererFederer restores an element of calm with an assured hold to keep his nose in front. "They're right at the peak of their powers both of these players," says David Felgate on
5 live sports extra. "Federer is the marginal favourite, but only because he is serving first."
*Denotes next server Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 6-2 2-2 Federer*Federer gives himself a massive chance with a blinding winner but Djokovic responds with one of his own an a clinical overhead for 40-30. A jaw-dropping rally ensues. Federer comes up with several unreal returns but Novak is in position to tap a volley into open court. He goes ballistic, pumping his fists all over the shop. The spectators are on their feet. Djoko's girlfriend is in tears. This is officially mental.
*Denotes next server
BRIT WATCH -
Oli Golding beats
George Morgan 6-0 7-6 (7-2) to reach the boy's final, where he'll play
Jiri Vesely after he sees off
Kyle Edmund 6-4 6-2.
*Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 6-2 1-2 FedererThat was as convincing as anything Federer came up with in the first couple of hours. Roger's back. "This is utterly engrossing," says David Law on 5 Live sports extra. Murray and Nadal may like the sight of these two wearing each other out, but they won't want to face either on this form.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 6-2 1-1 Federer*Some would say sets one to four were underwhelming. They'd probably be right. But they won't be saying that about set five. This is going to be an absolute epic. You can just sense it. Both men are seriously up for it. They're giving everything. Sport at its very best. Time for Djokovic to pass Federer at the net for a hold to 15. Anything you can do...
*Denotes next server *Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 6-2 0-1 FedererIt's like the final round of a boxing fight as both men step out of their corners to an ear-splitting ovation from the crowd. They seem to be siding with Federer and he responds with a magnificent service hold to, secured with a flicked off-forehand pass. "ROGER! ROGER!" chant the fans. The man himself shakes his racquet with a cry of "COME OOOONNN!". This is the Federer of old.
*Denotes next server
Anon via text on 81111: "Watching this match makes it quite obvious to me that Murray really lacks two things compared to Roger and Djoko. The first thing is the high first -serve percentage and the second is the length that they hit the ball in the court. Both of those things can be worked on and when they are corrected I see no reason why Murray can't get right amongst the other three."
Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 6-2 Federer*A dreadful forehand from Federer gifts Djokovic 40-0 and
three set point. Double-fault number four from Novak... that's the first point he's conceded on serve this set. Forehand winner from Federer... he's still in this. Djokovic bashes a forehand long... deuce. Game on? Not quite. Federer goes long then wide.
*Denotes next server BRIT WATCH -
Golding and
Morgan are 6-0 5-5 on Court Seven while
Kyle Edmund is serving at 2-3 in the second set against Jiri Vesely after dropping the opener 6-4.
*Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 5-2 FedererThe latest in a series of woeful Federer forehands lets Djokovic scuttle to 15-40 and
two set points. Both are saved, the second with an outstanding backhand crosscourt winner. Roger's first in a long, long time. The crowd show their appreciation - they're urging the five-time champion to up his game. A much better forehand wrong-foots Djoko before a slow ace out wide (just 76mph!) means Novak will have to serve it out.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 5-1 Federer*A 97mph forehand winner takes the breath away. Take a bow, Mr Djokovic. Federer's entire game has gone walkies. He slaps his thigh and punches his strings with anger. Murray-esque. Love hold. "His mind's already in the fifth set," reckons
David Felgate on
5 live sports extra.
*Denotes next server *Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 4-1 FedererFederer well and truly on the ropes at 15-40. Facing
two break points he goes all out attack and initially it pays off. But at the second time of asking, Djokovic matches this Swiss for aggression and intensity. The 16-time Grand Slam champion drills a backhand into the net. Novak lets out a roar of delight. One-way traffic.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 3-1 Federer* Skipping from his chair to the baseline, Federer's clearly trying to gee himself up and get some life into those legs. But it makes little difference. A massive serve sets Novak on and he dominates the next two rallies with some scarily-accurate groundstrokes to move 40-0 ahead. A huge ace confirms his superiority.
*Denotes next server *Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 2-1 Federer Federer still moving anything but smoothly, yet a Djokovic lob sails long and backhand wide and a service return into the net. "Come on!" Federer shouts, throwing in a fist-pump for good measure.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 2-0 Federer* The errors continue to flow from the racquet of a disgruntled-looking Federer. His movement has become worryingly poor. "If I didn't know better I'd say there's something up with him," says
David Felgate on
5 live sports extra.
*Denotes next server *Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 1-0 Federer Two backhand errors and a poor forehand see Federer slip to 15-40 and that's
two break points for Djokovic. He looks a beaten man on the first of them but manages to scramble across the advantage court and whip over a backhand that Federer can only volley into the net. Novak strikes. Federer looks all at sea. The tables have turned. Anyone for a five-setter?
*Denotes next server BRIT WATCH -
Oli Golding leads
George Morgan 6-0 3-1 on Court Seven and
Kyle Edmund drops the first set against Jiri Vesely 6-4 on Court 11. Places in the boys' final at stake there.
Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 6-3 Federer* And serve out the set he does. Electric atmosphere as both players come out for game nine. Federer lashes a disappointing off-forehand into the net but then come two Djokovic errors for 15-30. He's looking nervous, the Serb. However, Federer can't capitalise and Nole volleys his way to
set point. Not a great moment for Federer to complete mishit a backhand beyond the baseline. Game on!
*Denotes next server *Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 5-3 Federer Novak's return game has improved drastically this set. Once such backhand causes Federer to net for 40-30, but the Swiss comes through strongly so Djokovic will have to serve for the set.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 5-2 Federer* And unreturnable serve confirms Djokovic's own hold to love. Equally impressive. Federer does actually get to the ball but frames it into the crowd. It's caught one-handed by a delighted young lady. High-fives all round. Only in the States.
*Denotes next server *Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 4-2 Federer Hold to love. Sealed with a forehand winner. Utterly ruthless. Don't write Feds off just yet in this set.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 4-1 Federer* Clever stuff from the Fed Express to wrong-foot Djokovic for 15-15. But the Swiss nets and Novak then fires a forehand winner down the line to bring up 40-15. He glances up to his support team, shakes his fist and roars with delight. He's seriously pumped now. The game is his when Federer fails to return a booming forehand.
*Denotes next server
BRIT WATCH -
Oli Golding takes the first set against compatriot
George Morgan. The score?
6-0. Talk about one-sided...
*Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 3-1 Federer Federer appears to have this one in the bag at 40-15, only for Djokovic to send over a delicious drop shot from the baseline. It creeps over the net and stops dead. Federer helpless. A poor forehand from the Swiss maestro takes us to deuce but Novak then makes a couple of error to keep this set competitive.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 3-0 Federer* And that, my friends, is the Djokovic who has dominated men's tennis this season. Is the world number one from Belgrade back in this match? Only time will tell, but he looks re-energised out there.
*Denotes next server BRIT WATCH -
Peter Norfolk loses to David Wagner in the wheelchair quad,
Oli Golding leads
George Morgan 3-0 in the first boys' semi and
Kyle Edmund trails Jiri Vesely 3-1 in the second.
*Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 2-0 Federer "He's suddenly hitting through the ball, dominating the rallies and playing with much more aggressive," says
David Felgate on
5 live sports extra as the Serbian forces Federer to frame a forehand into the stands for deuce. The Swiss serves his way to game point on a couple of occasions but can't finish his dinner. Then comes a gigantic crosscourt forehand return from Djokovic for
break point. He can't take that one but here comes a
second break point... Federer misses his first serve... here comes the second... to the backhand... routine return... he goes long. Bad miss. However, he engineers a
third break points and this time Federer nets an easy backhand.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 1-0 Federer* Djokovic has never beaten Federer from two sets behind. He begins his effort to alter that fact with a unruffled hold to love. Much better body language from the Australian Open and Wimbledon champion.
*Denotes next server
*Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-6 Federer Whoops of delight engulf Arthur Ashe Stadium as Federer rams home his authority and the most commanding of service games. A couple of Djokovic errors help the 16-time Grand Slam champion to 30-0 and despite missing a forehand, Roger secures his two-set lead following two poor service returns from his opponent. He's bang on course for a seventh US Open final, but it's not over just yet. After all, he's up against the world number one and a man with a 62-2 win-loss record this season.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 4-5 Federer* But there's still enough petrol in the tank for a gritty service hold. Monumental game coming right up...
*Denotes next server *Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 3-5 Federer Chances of Nole responding immediately look high when another backhand down the line leaves Federer floundering. But the five-time champion is in control of this set and he looks in no mood to let go of it. A confident overhead takes him to 40-30 and then comes a body serve that bewilders Djokovic. The world number one is flustered. He's bends down and holds his ankles. Frankly, he seems exhausted.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 3-4 Federer* Dear oh dear oh dear. Just when he looked to have fought his way back into the match, Novak fluffs his lines. A combination of Federer brilliance and Djokovic indecision see the world number three race to 0-40 and
three break points. A marathon rally ensues... they're going toe-to-toe... Roger looking strong... Novak tiring... Novak fires long! Federer on the march.
*Denotes next server *Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 3-3 Federer The first fist-pump we've seen from Djokovic for some time as a backhand down the line eludes Federer and takes him to 15-30. Can he push on? Yes he can...
two break-back points are just around the corner thanks to a Federer error and when the Swiss fails to control a forehand down at his feet, Novak strikes.
*Denotes next server BRIT WATCH -
Peter Norfolk is a game away from defeat by David Wagner in the wheelchair quad singles, while
Oli Golding and
George Morgan are about to do battle for a place in the boys' final.
Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 2-3 Federer* Determined start from Federer on the resumption but Djoko levels us up with an ace and then forces his way to 40-15. The 24-year-old captures the game when a serve out wide is followed by an inside-out forehand on to the opposite line. Good work.
*Denotes next server 1940: We've got a break in play at the start of game five after a spectator faints in the top tier of Arthur Ashe Stadium. Hot old day.
*Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 1-3 Federer Djokovic must be applauded for the composure he's showing despite being in an awfully sticky situation. A couple of excellent groudstrokes help him to 30-30 and then deuce thanks to a Federer error. The Swiss gets to game point for the second time by wrong-footing Novak and then scrapes over the line as Djokovic nets a forehand. "It's just not happening for Djokovic," says David Felgate on 5 live sports extra. "He's not being aggressive enough."
*Denotes next server Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 1-2 Federer* "He made it clear from the get-go that he was going to be aggressive," says
David Felgate on
5 live sports extra. "He hasn't had the timing throughout but that's starting to come now." And how... the 16-time Grand Slam champions laces a supreme backhand winner down the line for 15-40 and
two break points. This feels like a critical moment... Djokovic digs deep to save both but then finds the net to offer Roger a
third break point. This time he looks in no mood to let the chance slip away. A superb inside-out forehand takes Djokovic wide and, as the Serb sprints back into position, Federer wrong-foots him to seal what could prove a pivotal
break of serve.
*Denotes next server *Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 1-1 Federer Love hold. Take that. Federer in the zone.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) 1-0 Federer* A non-nonsense hold for Djokovic to get the second set up and running. Stern-faced now, the Serb. He's not a happy chappy after that tie-break. Nole's record when he wins the first set of a match is brilliant. But he's lost is on this occasion, so how will he respond?
*Denotes next server STAT ATTACK: Federer finishes the opening set with a
first-serve-percentage of 62% to Djokovic's 59%, winning 75% of points when that delivery landed to his opponent's 86%. There were 13
unforced errors for Federer, 12 for Djoko, and seven
winners for the Swiss - 11 for the Serb.
Justin Gimelstob on Twitter:
"FEDERER so clutch, wins opening set in a breaker, can't imagine how amazing this day can get after this start, but we R in 4 a fun day!"
*Djokovic 6-7 (7-9) Federer Huge ovations for both men as they retreat to the baseline the the start of the breaker. Federer starts aggressively, forcing Djokovic to flick a backhand wide before getting the mini-break when the Serb dumps a forehand into the net. Roger then nets an attempted forehand pass - big chance, that - and we're back on level terms after his curves a backhand into the tramlines. The Swiss then places a running forehand on to the line and Djokovic drills one wide for
4-2. They exchange double-faults before Novak nets a forehand return to gift Federer
three set points at
6-3 and he raises his arms in frustration, looking pretty disconsolate. However, the first set point is saved with a big serve, the second with a forehand put-away off a net-cord and the third with a stunning forehand winner. The world number one nets a backhand to hand Federer a
fourth set point ... massive forehand into the corner from Nole... Federer can't control his return. The Swiss, though, wrong-foots Djokovic to register a
fifth set point and, finally, takes it when Novak swats a forehand return into the net.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 6-6 Federer* This time it's Federer who makes the early move, attacking Djokovic from the outset and forcing the top seed to go long. However, few poor returns end his hopes and into a tie-break we go...
*Denotes next server *Djokovic 5-6 FedererFirst blood to Djokovic with an inside-out forehand return that proves too good for his esteemed opponent. But at long last we see some rhythm from the Federer forehand and a couple of gems off that time - plus a thumping overhead put-away - help him through.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 5-5 Federer*A crowd-pleasing exchange to get game 10 under way, Federer bringing Djokovic in and winding up for the pass only to whack a forehand long. Novak goes wide with a woeful forehand but then accelerates away and wraps it up when Roger misses a forehand.
*Denotes next server *Djokovic 4-5 Federer"Nine games in and I don't think either player has completely settled," says David Felgate on 5 live sports extra as Federer seems to lose a bit of concentration at 40-0 but still comes through to 30. He's working hard to get that forehand singing and dancing, the Swiss.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 4-4 Federer*Djokovic in cruise control at 40-0 but a rather ambitious drop shot from behind the baseline checks his progress. Only for a moment, though. So far so good for the world number one, who's aiming to win his third Grand Slam of what has been a dream season.
*Denotes next server
David Felgate on 5 live sports extra: "It's been quite a flat start with a couple of half-decent rallies, nothing spectacular. The Federer forehand has not exactly been firing and there have been a few unforced errors from Djokovic. We'll call it a slow burner at the moment."
*Djokovic 3-4 FedererA uncharacteristically poor forehand from Federer gives Djokovic a look-in at 30-30. Roger averts the danger but isn't happy when a serve is called out at 40-30. He uses the system he famously hates - Hawk Eye - to challenge the decision... and he's proved correct. It's in. He holds. By Nole is certainly upping the ante.
*Denotes next server
Djokovic 3-3 Federer*Talking of celebs, I'm told Justin Timberlake, Ben Stiller Bradley Cooper are among the other A-listers in the house. Back to the action and an early forehand error from Djoko gives Federer hope. But not for long... Novak cranks up that much-improved serve for a hold to 15. Djokovic's
victory over Federer at this stage last year
really marked the turning point for the Serb after a poor year up until then. What happened next was all rather magical but, lest we forget, it was Federer who ended Djoko's unbeaten start to the season with
victory in the French Open
semis.
*Denotes next server
*Djokovic 2-3 FedererAll baseline rallies so far. Until, that is, Federer releases a nicely-disguised drop shot. Novak gets to it but Roger converts an easy volley. Djokovic wins his first point on the Federer serve when the 30-year-old shanks a forehand and another sumptuous backhand down the line makes it 30-30. A first moment of pressure for either player. Fear not, Fed fans. Your man comes through with a flourish - acing his way home. Big cheers from the crowd for that, and also at the sight of Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones on the big screens.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 2-2 Federer*After 13 straight points to the server, Djokovic lashes a forehand into the net. Not that it knocks the Serbian top seed out of his stride... a breathtaking double-fisted backhand down the line seals the deal.
*Denotes next server *Djokovic 1-2 FedererMore imperious serving from the Swiss master and Djokovic pulls a forehand into the tramlines to wrap up the third hold to love.
*Denotes next server Djokovic 1-1 Federer*Novak responds in kind, starting off with an ace straight down the 'T' and finishing with a nod in the direction of his support team after Federer drills a single-handed backhand into the net. Touché.
*Denotes next server *Djokovic 0-1 FedererTwo monster forehands take Federer to 40-0 before Djokovic goes long to confirm a love service hold for the Swiss world number three. That's some way to open a match of such importance.
*Denotes next server 1822: Sensational noise inside Ashe for this one. Federer has gone for a colour change from his last match - he's in red top with matching bandana and dark grey shorts. Novak all in white. Roger to serve first. Here we go...
1820: Federer and Djokovic finally emerge from the locker rooms, stopping for a quick interview before taking to the court. Novak describes Federer as "the ultimate test, the best player ever." All very nice, but don't be fooled into thinking Djokovic will be in awe of the 16-time Grand Slam champion out there today. Nole's the world number one and in the midst of the greatest year of his sporting life. His win-loss record for 2011 stands at
62-2. Amazing, hey? On that front, Nadal is second with 58-10 and Federer third with
47-11.
Judy Murray on Twitter:
"Puff Daddy - or is it P Diddy? - in da house. Breezing thru the player resto with his kid. I confess...I had to be told who he was."
1805: Still no news on a revised start time but I can't imagine it'll be too far away. In the meantime, keep those
tweets
and
texts coming. I'm feeling a lot of backing for Mr Murray from you lot, which is good to see. How about Djokovic v Federer? They're meeting for the 24th time and a fifth in succession at the US Open. That last stat equals the record for most meetings at one Grand Slam between two players in the Open Era.
Lendl v McEnroe (US Open),
Connors v Lendl (US Open) and
Federer v Nadal (French Open) also happened on five occasions.
Jody via text on 81111: "Blessing in disguise, the rain. Gives Andy an extra hour or so rest and may shake up Fed/Djok. Hopefully a 5-set marathon for them. Fingers crossed Murray can do the business! Come on Andy! We're all behind you!"
Murray has reached the last four of every Grand Slam this year
|
1755: Back comes the rain. Not much fun this, is it? Only light, mind, so hopefully it won't cause a major delay. Plenty of excitement building ahead of these semi-finals and Britain's representative,
Andy Murray, has just pulled up at the gates. Here's what he had to say to say on arrival: "It's great. There's a different atmosphere here to the other Slams and I'm sure it'll be packed for a couple of good matches. Over the last three or four years Rafa's been the best player. I've always enjoyed playing him, we've had a lot of great matches. Hard courts are those on which my game matches up best to his, so I've got a chance but I'll have to play well."
1743: Players due on Ashe at 1755 BST. You'll be able to read game-by-game text commentary right here, and you can also listen to the match on
BBC Radio 5 live sports extra.
1740: So here's the plan of action. Once the courts are in playable condition, Djokovic and Federer will take to Arthur Ashe Stadium for the opening men's semi-final. Murray and Nadal were scheduled to follow them not before 1945 BST but that might well be delayed too. The first women's semi, Stosur against Kerber, is scheduled to start at 2300 BST on Grandstand, with Serena and Wozniacki going head-to-head on Ashe at midnight UK time.
1735: It was indeed a passing shower - pockets of blue sky now linger over the Meadows. Unfortunately, the USTA don't like court covers - apparently they look ugly - so the laborious process of drying up will begin in earnest. Mops, towels, vacuum cleaners, blowdryers, whatever the staff can get their hands on.
Andrew via text on 81111: "As and when the tennis gets under way, I'm hoping for Murray and Fed victories. Sadly, I fear neither of those are likely. Fingers crossed though and they should be good games either way."
1725: Hmmmm, this wasn't part of the script... how is it physically possible for more rain to fall on New York after the torrential downpours of Tuesday and Wednesday? Oh well, let's use this hold-up as best we can. Get your thoughts, predictions, questions and random ramblings of to me
@bbcsport_david
using the Twitter hashtag
#BBCtennis
or text in on
81111 (UK).
1720: Want the good news or the bad? Bad news first? Well, I regret to inform you it's raining. Bucketing down, in fact. We're looking at a half-hour rain delay. At least. The good news? This looks to be a rogue cloud, a passing shower. All surrounding areas to Flushing Meadows appear to be bathed in sunshine.
1715: For a change at this stage of a Grand Slam tournament, British interest no only comes in the form of Murray. We've got three players in the semi-finals of the boys' singles -
Oli Golding,
George Morgan and
Kyle Edmund - and as many in the quarter-finals of the boys' doubles - Morgan, Golding and
Liam Broady. Not forgetting
Peter Norfolk in the wheelchair quad singles.
1710: Semi-finals day at the US Open. The best four male tennis players on the planet all in action.
Novak Djokovic v Roger Federer followed by
Andy Murray v Rafael Nadal. Oh, and the small matter of
Serena Williams v Caroline Wozniacki and
Sam Stosur v Angelique Kerber. No wonder they call it Super Saturday...
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