Federer has the game to beat Djokovic, who is ultra-favourite – The Eye of the Coach #8

In The Eye of the Coach #8, Patrick Mouratoglou explains why Roger Federer is so dangerous for Novak Djokovic, and why the Serb is however the ultra-favourite of their semi-final encounter at the 2020 Australian Open. The Serbian must fear the Swiss, who beat him during their last meeting, in 2019 Nitto ATP Finals in London (6-4, 6-3). He knows Roger Federer has the weapons to beat him, even in 5-setters.

“Roger has it. He can do what few can. He was so close at Wimbledon. He had match points at the US Open. But he didn’t do it. He’s close in terms of game. He’s able to do it.”

But at the same time, Novak Djokovic has great confidence in his game, especially here in Australia, where he left with the trophy seven times. The world number two didn’t lost a match in 2020 and is very impressive since the beginning of the Australian Open.

“At the moment, he is confident. He won the ATP Cup playing good matches. Winning important matches is essential in the build-up of Grand Slams. His returns against Raonic… He’ll be able to fight this pressure with the confidence he gained.”

“Federer’s condition is the biggest question”

Novak Djokovic leads his head-to-head record against Roger Federer, 26-23. For Patrick Mouratoglou, Roger Federer has the game to beat Novak Djokovic, but it will be difficult in 5 sets after he already played two 5-setters during this Australian Open. The first against John Millman in the third round and the second in the quarter-finals against Tennys Sandgren, when he saved seven match points !

“Roger’s condition is the biggest question. He’s waiting the last moment to see how he feels. When you’re playing a semi-final against Djokovic, it’s the hardest.”

Novak Djokovic only lost one set and is ready mentally and physically to face Roger Federer.