Novak Djokovic: 'Rod Laver Arena is my favorite stadium in the world'

The defending Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic is safely through to his eighth semi-final in Melbourne, beating Milos Raonic 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 in under three hours to set a blockbuster clash with Roger Federer. It was another rock-solid performance from the seven-time Melbourne winner, taming his shots nicely and taking all the power from Milos' initial shot to halt him on under 20 aces. Raonic needed much more than that to stand a chance against such a strong opponent, having to play against 16 break chances and fending off 14 of those to avoid a total disaster and stay in touch in the third set.

Djokovic never lost serve and his focus was on a high level all the time, determined to challenge Milos in every return game and making the difference with his groundstrokes and the initial shot as well that the Canadian failed to read or control. As many times before, the legendary Rod Laver was there to watch Novak, receiving some kind words from the Serb after the match as he felt honored to compete in front of such a grand champion that the Stadium got the name from. Expressing his love for Rod Laver Arena and the Australian Open in general, Djokovic once again highlighted it is his favorite court and the tournament, always loving to go down under and play at Melbourne Park where he claimed the first Major crown in 2008. 

"I'm honored to have Rod Laver present here tonight for our match; thank you very much for coming. It adds more pressure, seeing Rod and all the other legends sitting in the box and watching us play. I have been fortunate to play on such a high level for so many years and this is without any doubt my favorite court and tournament; I love being here."

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/3aTcoeJ