Federer powers past Goffin and into Australian Open quarterfinals

Roger Federer advanced to his 12th Australian Open semi-final on Tuesday with an efficient 7-6(4) 6-2 6-4 victory over sixth seed Tomas Berdych.

“I think it’s more (about hitting) a reset button because I think I’ve played a lot of tennis in the last four or five weeks”.

Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova have confirmed their quarterfinal date at the Australian Open, each advancing in straight sets on Sunday to ensure a rematch in Melbourne Park between last year’s finalists.

“He’s one of the guys who makes you a better player”.

“To be quite honest, when I walked out of the press room (in Brisbane) I thought I was somewhat tough, but at the same time I was fair because I said nice things about him”, Federer said. Federer capitalised on the fast court conditions to maintain his dominance in the second set and two breaks of serve – in the first and fifth games – of the third set extinguished Goffin’s hopes.

Federer again broke on his fourth break point to crack the second set wide open, and he served out for a two-love lead in 50 minutes. However, the 17-times Grand Slam champion has again displayed top form as he looks to win his first Australian Open title since 2010 and first Grand Slam title since Wimbledon 2012. But at 4-4, Federer stretched Berydch out wide with a terrific backhand down the line that the Czech couldn’t return, and that was the final break of the match.

“I think I played a good match – aggressive, had some variety in there, it was quick conditions so I’m happy I came through this one”.

Kei Nishikori would impress in fine style to come through his last 16 match against Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in straight sets – and has been rewarded for that effort with a tie against World No. 1 Novak Djokovic. The four-time Australian Open champion didn’t get on court until 10:45 p.m. because of to late-finishing matches in the afternoon and a subsequent delayed start to the night program. Last year, Bencic was on the receiving end of a WTA-record 27 aces from Sabine Lisicki.

Williams said she wasn’t aware that she had won the Australian Open all six previous times she won her quarterfinal match, “but that’s good”. “I mean, I do feel really good at net since a few years now”.

Melbourne, Jan 25 Roger Federer says words of support from the legendary Rod Laver are motivating him as he pursues yet more Grand Slam glory in the twilight of his fabled career.

“It’s part of the reason why I guess I’m still playing”. The answer must lie in keeping points short, serving potently, keeping Djokovic off balance and mixing it up as much as possible.

“I think he’s still on a pretty high level, playing great tennis”. But the Swiss Maestro’s Australian Open goal does not stop there as he faces Belgian David Goffin in the fourth round of the tournament. Wished maybe I didn’t get a break here or there.