Novak Djokovic: It takes big effort to win whenever I play Roger Federer

No. 2 seed Novak Djokovic insists he will have to be at his best game if he wants to beat Roger Federer in the Australian Open semifinal as he expects another tough clash when they meet for the 50th time in their respective careers.

Djokovic saw off world No. 35 Milos Raonic in straight sets 6-4 6-3 7-6 (1) in his quarterfinal clash at Melbourne Park, while third-seeded Federer saved seven match points before ending out world No. 100 Tennys Sandgren 6-3 2-6 2-6 7-6 (8) 6-3. 

The 38-year-old Swiss received a medical time out for a groin injury during the Sandgren clash and it remains to be seen if he will be fully fit for his upcoming clash against defending Australian Open champion Djokovic.

"Whenever we get the chance to play each other we understand that it takes a big effort to win," Djokovic told reporters after beating Raonic, per Metro UK. "He was one shot away from beating me at [last year’s] Wimbledon.

"Roger is Roger. You know he’s always going to play at such a high level. He loves these matches and rivalries. That’s why he’s still competing. 

"What he did today was really amazing. To do that at his age, he’s still playing such great tennis. He’s a great fighter. I have so much respect for him. 

"But I’ve been feeling well. If I continue playing as I have throughout the tournament hopefully things can come together for me in a positive way and I can have a chance to win."

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/38KAeHV