The 2013 Australian Open will feature a matchup that should might as well highlight the tournament as Andy Murray meets Roger Federer in the Men's Singles semifinals on Friday in Australia.
Once again these guys meet up. It's almost getting tiresome. Just kidding. These guys are too good to ever be boring. They met five times in 2012 and Federer took the series 3-2.
It will be the 20th time they faceoff with Murray holding the 10-9 edge.Federer won their last meeting at the semifinals of the ATP Tour World Finals.
For some reason, Federer holds the edge over Murray when it matters most. He beat Murray twice in finals matchups at Wimbledon and Dubai only dropping their Olympic gold medal match. In the past, Federer took the 2010 Australian Open and 2008 U.S. Open from Murray.
Unfortunately, this is only a semifinals matchup, but it's of great importance nonetheless as the winner will compete against defending champion Novak Djokovic.
Why does Murray hold the edge over Federer in this match?
He's surprisingly been more efficient and completely dominated his opponents throughout the tournament. Murray has yet to drop a set in the 2013 Australian Open, demolishing every single one of his challengers.
Most recently, Murray got past Jeremy Chardy of France in grandiose fashion beating him 6-4, 6-1, 6-2 in the quarterfinals.
Federer proved weak in his last matchup as he was pushed to the brink against Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in five sets that were pretty close. Federer was able to get past Tsonga 7(7)-6(4), 4-6, 7(7)-6(4), 6-3, 3-6.
If Murray is able to continuously break Federer's serve, then chances are he can walk away victorious.
Federer is still playing at a high level despite being 31. However, Murray's play in this tournament has been utterly surprising, but dominant.
The action sets off after 7:30 p.m. EDT/3:30 a.m. ET.
