Rafael Nadal held down great rival Roger Federer, 7-6 (7/4), 6-3, 6-3, to face first time Australian Open Finalist Stanislas Wawrinka in Rod Laver Arena.
The 17-time Grand Slam Champion Nadal resisted to give Federer the composure by winning the first set tiebreak. Nadal brought the momentum in the second as he broke twice, as well as in the third set displaying impressive quickness and power to seal the match.
“We played some really tough rallies at the end of the first set and I resisted really well because Roger was trying to play very aggressive and taking the ball very early,” Nadal said.
Moving back and forth in the court, Nadal, also known as the “King of Clay”, weakened the Swiss Champion’s strong hold to stay in the game by raising two match points after the two hours and 24 minutes of play.
“I think tonight I played my best match of the tournament, so I am very happy for that.”
Nadal was favored to grab the title when he faces Wawrinka, who never won against him in 12 meetings.