Australian Open 2020, Semifinals, Roger Federer vs Novak Djokovic Highlights: Djokovic beats Federer in straight sets; Kenin vs Muguruza in women's final

The juggernaut! 

Novak Djokovic at #AusOpen remains a constant in this crazy world.

Into his EIGHTH final here with a 7-6(1), 6-4, 6-3 win over Federer.

ND's 7-0 in those previous seven finals.

Awaits the winner of the kindergarten match between Dominic Thiem and Sascha Zverev tomorrow night.

— Ben Rothenberg (@BenRothenberg) January 30, 2020

Thank you Federer for everything you did tonight! 

It's always a pleasure, @rogerfederer.

We hope to see you back next year 👋#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/2Q52u4rkxC

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 30, 2020

Djokovic: Roger was obviously hurt and credit to him for coming out and playing so well. At the start I was looking more at what he was doing than what I was doing but I managed to dig myself back into it. It was very important to do that. I knew he’d try to mix it up and come to the net but I tried to stay with him in the rallies and move him around instead.

He’s unstoppable! 

🇷🇸 U-N-S-T-O-P-P-A-B-L-E 🇷🇸@DjokerNole def. Roger Federer for the 27th time 7-6(1) 6-4 6-3 to earn the chance to play for his 8️⃣th #AusOpen title 🏆#AO2020 pic.twitter.com/Hy7lu8AIHo

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 30, 2020

Novak Djokovic beats Federer to reach Australian Open final

GAME, SET, MATCH. The defending champion beats Federer 7-6(1), 6-4, 6-3 in the first men’s singles final. Federer made incredible comebacks in the last two matches but this was always going to be a big ask. Federer was hurting already still fought hard but Djokovic was too good on the night. He has always been good at Melbourne.

3rd set: Djokovic 7-6(1), 6-4, 5-3 Federer* (* denotes server)

Federer comes out aggressively in the game, attacking by coming forward to the net and holds to 30. Still, Djokovic is just one game away from the win.

3rd set: Djokovic* 7-6(1), 6-4, 5-2 Federer (* denotes server)

Federer fought hard. The veteran used the surprise trick of sneaking to the net to attack and won two points but that was it as Djokovic kept his composure to hold to 30. The serbian is now just one game away from win.

3rd set: Djokovic 7-6(1), 6-4, 4-2 Federer* (* denotes server)

Djokovic breaks! This is a big game win for the Serbian. And he won the game with a beautiful looping forehand that was kept wide from Federer as the veteran gasped.

3rd set: Djokovic* 7-6(1), 6-4, 3-2 Federer (* denotes server)

The Serbian holds again. Both the players have been very good on their serve, Djokovic lost the first point on his serve but then accumulated four straight ones to hold.

3rd set: Djokovic 7-6(1), 6-4, 2-2 Federer* (* denotes server)

Federer holds to love, thanks to lovely serves which were laced with aces. In fact he produced three back-to-back aces to hold.

3rd set: Djokovic* 7-6(1), 6-4, 2-1 Federer (* denotes server)

Djokovic holds to 30. He starts off well and takes two points before Federer makes a comeback but he couldn’t continue as an ace does the job for Serbian.

3rd set: Djokovic 7-6(1), 6-4, 1-1 Federer* (* denotes server)

Djokovic’s tempo has dipped a bit but he still makes it 30-all with Federer making a double fault but then Federer holds on to the serve with two quick points.

Djokovic is all pupmed up! 

Djokovic (🎥@Eurosport_RU ) pic.twitter.com/QoHO4n7JgJ

— doublefault28 (@doublefault28) January 30, 2020

3rd set: Djokovic* 7-6(1), 6-4, 1-0 Federer (* denotes server)

The Serbian is serving for the match and holds to the first one.

Djokovic wins the second set

Federer’s was serving to stay in the set but Djokovic had the last laugh as he broke the service and took the set 6-4. 30-all, deuce, Federer kept fighting but Djokovic produced a brilliant return winner for set point. Two sets to love now.

2nd set: Djokovic* 7-6(1), 5-4 Federer (* denotes server)

Federer has been playing a risky game by attacking a lot but now he has multiplied it by standing much higher up to face the serves. Still that was not much of an issue for Djokovic as he holds his serve to 15.

2nd set: Djokovic 7-6(1), 4-4 Federer* (* denotes server)

Almost a perfect game for Federer as he holds and that is his greatness. Even though he is not at his best he continues to fight on. He holds to love with aces and by forcing Djokovic to make errors.

2nd set: Djokovic* 7-6(1), 4-3 Federer (* denotes server)

The Serbian holds again! Federer made a good start by taking a point on his opponents’ serve but Djokovic then collects all the points quickly to hold his serve.

2nd set: Djokovic 7-6(1), 3-3 Federer* (* denotes server)

Federer holds! It looked unlikely after Djokovic earned the break point with Swiss also making a double fault in the game but the Serbian squanders the advantage with a long shot and Federer holds.

2nd set: Djokovic* 7-6(1), 3-2 Federer (* denotes server)

Unforced errors on forehand and backhand by Federer helps Djokovic race to 30-0 lead but then the Swiss brings out a lovely forehand winner with Djokovic going for the backhand line. Djokovic holds with an ace as Federer pushes the last shot long.

2nd set: Djokovic 7-6(1), 2-2 Federer* (* denotes server)

Federer starts off well with two back-to-back aces to go 30-0 up, another sneak attack to net forces Djokovic to go wide for 15-40. The Swiss holds with a strong one-two punch. Good game this for Federer.

2nd set: Djokovic* 7-6(1), 2-1 Federer (* denotes server)

Smash, smash, smash and Djokovic holds his serve to love. The pressure is back on Federer as the Serbian continues his onslaught.

2nd set: Djokovic 7-6(1), 1-1 Federer* (* denotes server)

Federer on his own serve gives away two break points befor reaching to deuce. And then holds onto his own serve as Djokovic’s forehand goes long.

2nd set: Djokovic* 7-6(1), 1-0 Federer (* denotes server)

Djokovic gets the second set underway! He holds very quickly with Federer committing a lot of backhand errors. The Serbian finishes the game with a wide forehand.

Okay, Federer is back on the court and he is welcomed with loud cheer from the crowd. It’s time for the second set.

Federer has taken a medical time out. He has gone off the court to seek medical attention as Djokovic sits back and savours his first set win.

First set goes to Djokovic

Djokovic takes the first set 7-6(1). Can you believe it? Federer was up 4-1, 4-0 and yet has lost the first set in 62 minutes.

Tie-break

Federer* 6-6 (1-6) Djokovic

Federer hit a powerful winner to get his first point but that was it for him as Djokovic forces him to net and takes a point on serve

Tie-break

Federer* 6-6 (0-3) Djokovic

Federer misses the down the line volley from Djokovic after the Serbian hits a beautiful backhand winner

1st set: Federer 6-6 Djokovic (* denotes server)*

A beautiful backhand shot which hugged the line from Federer for 15-15 but the next cross court shot is long as Djokovic goes 30-15 up. Federer pulls one point back but two back-to-back aces from Djokovic means we will have tie-break.

1st set: Federer* 6-5 Djokovic (* denotes server)

Federer holds! He was behind, giving away two break points to Djokovic but to his credit Federer cameback thanks to his excellent backhand shots. One of them was dropped gently in front of Djokovic.

1st set: Federer 5-5 Djokovic* (* denotes server)

Djokovic holds now to make it 5-5. Federer is making a lot of unforced errors and the Serbian takes full advantage of it. He has won three straight games now.

1st set: Federer* 5-4 Djokovic (* denotes server)

Djokovic breaks! He has found his rhythm, making Federer run across the court with wide range of shots. The Serbian races to three break points and then wins the game.

1st set: Federer 5-3 Djokovic* (* denotes server)

Good effort by Djokovic to stay with Federer as the Serbian holds. He was serving with new balls but Federer went up early before Djokovic pulled back, went to deuce and then converted the advantage.

1st set: Federer* 5-2 Djokovic (* denotes server)

A love hold for Federer. He is hitting aces for fun, seven so far in this match, Djokovic now needs to hold to stop Swiss from winning the set.

1st set: Federer 4-2 Djokovic* (* denotes server)

Double fault for Djokovic to start off before unforced errors gave Federer three break points. The Serbian makes a return from there. A good serve forces Federer to play long followed by an ace and one more point taking Djokovic to deuce. Advantage for Federer who surrenders it and Djokovic pounces on the next one to hold.

1st set: Federer* 4-1 Djokovic (* denotes server)

Djokovic makes a good start on Federer’s serve but then two big serves helps the Swiss take 30-15 lead. Federer messes up his next shot but closes out the game with an ace.

1st set: Federer 3-1 Djokovic* (* denotes server)

Another poor serving game for Djokovic. He raced to 40-15 lead but Federer gets to deuce, finds the break point. Djokovic survives but could not resist for long as Federer makes it 3-1 in his favour.

1st set: Federer* 2-1 Djokovic (* denotes server)

Djokovic hits straight back! Breaks Federer to 30 immediately and it was very important for him to find his footing soon in the match. Although him breaking Federer did not excite the crowd. Federer way too much popular.

1st set: Federer 2-0 Djokovic* (* denotes server)

Poor start for Djokovic. He committed a couple of unforced errors and that gave a 40-15 lead to Federer who closes out the game with a a brilliant backhand winner from a tight angle when Djokovic had the court covered.

1st set: Federer* 1-0 Djokovic (* denotes server)

Federer was slow to start with his serve, netting one and committing an unforced error as Djokovic made it 40-15 but the Swiss was quick to find his rhythm. Did a good one-two punch to get to deuce followed by a see-saw battle of advantage and deuce. He finally holds after six minutes. ​Federer is running well so for now we don’t need to worry about his groin.

Federer to serve first

Djokovic had his fan Connor flipping the coin but the tennis star made the wrong call and that means Federer will get the proceedings underway

Yes, more of this is what we all need! 

More of this tonight please, gents 🙌@DjokerNole | @rogerfederer | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/yLoSPZXRA9

— ATP Tour (@atptour) January 30, 2020

Alright, we are just moments away from the big semi-final – Novak Djokovic vs Roger Federer. Djokovic has a superior record against Federer and has not lost to the Swiss at Slams since 2012 but lost to him last Novemeber in ATP World Tour Finals.

MEN’S DOUBLES: Joe Salisbury and Rajeev Ram have won their men’s doubles semi-final. They defeated Alexander Bublik and Mikhail Kukushkin 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 and will face Luke Saville and Max Purcell in final.

Djokovic vs Federer next!

Half an hour to go before the 50th installment of Roger Federer vs Novak Djokovic and fifth at Australian Open. Novak leads 26-23 on overall head-to-head and 3-1 at Melbourne Park with all three wins coming in the semi-finals.

Spaniards unite!

💪💪💪 @GarbiMuguruza vamos team @conchitamartinz

— David Ferrer (@DavidFerrer87) January 30, 2020

Job is not over yet, says Muguruza

Mentality of a champion.

We look forward to seeing you back on @RodLaverArena on Saturday night, @GarbiMuguruza! #AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/CWndPqbqMY

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 30, 2020

A great job well done for the Muguruza team

Ecstatic!

Team @GarbiMuguruza are thrilled for their gal.#AO2020 | #AusOpen | @conchitamartinz pic.twitter.com/UxJHo8Dw1i

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 30, 2020

Contrasting starts and weeks for both

Simona Halep had come into the semifinal at Australian Open without dropping a set and on the other side, Garbine Muguruza had lost her first set 0-6 in the first round!

Muguruza: “You start day by day. Each match had its time. Final is always a long way to go and I have one more match on Saturday.”

“I was never thinking I was down. I knew I was going to have a hard match against Simona Halep.”

“I have 48 hours to recover for the final. We work week in week out to prepare and be ready for this moment, to be ready for these courts and these crowds.”

Garbine Muguruza into the final

Garbine Muguruza beats Simona Halep 7-6 (8), 7-5 in two hours and five minutes to set up final with Sofia Kenin. Whoever wins, we’d get a first time Australian Open winner. Two first-time finalists as well at Melbourne Park.

Halep* 6-7, 5-7 Muguruza (* denotes server)

Simona Halep serving to stay in the semi-final. A forehand error and Muguruza goes one step closer. Make that another step closer with a big forehand reply on the serve and then a kill volley. 0-30. Tries to go for too much on the next forehand and it goes long. Halep dominates the point, moving Muguruza from side to side on the baseline, and then a drop shot is not good enough. Garbine moves up and sens the drop for an angled drop winner of her own. Two match points for Muguruza. The Spaniard with superb depth to her groundstrokes but equally powerful is Halep who returns it with substance and saves one match point. Muguruza with lovely volleys and Halep blinks! GAME, SET, MATCH MUGURUZA!

Halep 6-7, 5-6 *Muguruza (* denotes server)

If grunting were the parameter to judge the match, this match has been one hell of a battle. Both players moving all around the court. Halep with a backhand long and Muguruza holds serve after dropping just one point on serve.

Halep* 6-7, 5-5 Muguruza (* denotes server)

A missed forehand and Muguruza has the chance to make it 5-5 and do a reverse of the first set. But Muguruza lets the chance go to bring it to deuce. A backhand error though has Muguruza with another chance. Halep shuts door on it once again with a sublime forehand winner down the line with Muguruza at the net. Halep sends the backhand long and Garbine has a third break point chance of this game. And once again it goes begging. Lucky from Halep as the ball trickles the net on its way but it was destined to be a winner either way. Halep with a missed forehand after incredible defensive work from Muguruza to keep the point going all the way. Fourth break point chance is converted as Halep sends forehand long.

Halep 6-7, 5-4 *Muguruza (* denotes server)

A love hold for Muguruza and she puts the onus on Simona Halep to get the job done and force a third.

Halep* 6-7, 5-3 Muguruza (* denotes server)

Incredible hitting by both players and maybe even more remarkably, very precise. Halep touching the paint on the baseline to go from 15-30 down to 30-30. Muguruza with misses on the forehand and Halep holds serve.

Halep 6-7, 4-3 *Muguruza (* denotes server)

Now Muguruza with a rather comfortable hold. ‘Comfortable’ a very subjective term when these two are involved…

Halep* 6-7, 4-2 Muguruza (* denotes server)

A short ball from Simona Halep and Garbine Muguruza rides on it for a winner and brings up a break point at 30-40. A big serve is unreturned to bring the game to deuce. Another forehand winner brings up a second break point and once again Halep is equal to it. A strenuous point, 13 shots long from both, has both gasping for air. Eventually Halep gets the hold with a forehand winner. First hold of serve after three straight broken games.

Halep 6-7, 3-2 *Muguruza (* denotes server)

Couple of missed forehands from Muguruza and Halep has two break points to once again take the advantage. One is saved with a 153 kmph ace and the second by a 161 kmph serve. It is followed by a double fault on deuce to give Halep a third break point chance. And another saved with another ace. This one even bigger: 167 kmph. Muguruza with little wrong on the rally but Halep is incredible on the run and sends a winner even with the intervention of the net. Muguruza had a chance to prolong the game but the backhand sails long and that’s break for Halep. Again.

Halep* 6-7, 2-2 Muguruza (* denotes server)

BREAK RIGHT BACK! The advantage doesn’t last long and Simona Halep is broken immediately. A missed backhand presents Garbine with a chance to break and she doesn’t take long in converting the opportunity with a forehand winner. Muguruza now 2/6 on break points

Halep 6-7, 2-1 *Muguruza (* denotes server)

BREAK! The elusive break comes to Simona Halep finally. Muguruza saved one of the two with a forehand winner but sends the backhand on the next into the net. Halep now a miserable 2/9 on break points.

Halep* 6-7, 1-1 Muguruza (* denotes server)

Hold by both players at the start of the second set. Muguruza doing it with rather ease but Halep found trouble. She navigated around two break points, sudden drop in confidence before holding things and make it one game all.

Highlights of first set in Halep vs Muguruza

– Muguruza led 5-3 at one stage
– Halep won three straight games and had two set points at 6-5
– Muguruza led 3-0 in the tiebreak
– Halep won four straight points to make it 4-3
– Muguruza won three straight points and had two set points at 6-4
– Halep had a set point, and her third, at 7-6
– Muguruza prevails and saves another set point at 7-8
– Muguruza eventually wins the set at 7-6 (10-8)

Halep was clearly frustrated after the first set didn’t go her way

Simona destroyed her racquet after losing that set.

— Carole Bouchard 💜💛 (@carole_bouchard) January 30, 2020

Garbine Muguruza wins opening set 7-6 (8)

The first set goes Garbine Muguruza’s way 7-6 (8) in an hour and seven minutes. The Spaniard served for the set at 5-4 and squandered two set point opportunities while saving four before closing it out in the end

First set tiebreak

Halep sees Muguruza’s backhand go long and now, all of a sudden, Simona has a set point. Muguruza with an exceptional wide serve and Halep gets the racket to it but the ball hits the net. 7-7 now. Double fault at the worst possible time! First by Muguruza today. Simona Halep with a fourth set point chance. 20 shot rally with serious venom on each and it ends with Halep missing a forehand cross court. Just a bit too much angle on it and Halep is frustrated and looks back at Cahill. 8-8 suddenly becomes 9-8 for Muguruza. A third set point chance for the Spaniard now. Muguruza tries to go behind Halep but the Romanian keeps the ball in play before erring on the drop shot pickup. It hits the net and Muguruza takes the opening set 7-6 (8) with Halep angrily shaking her head.

First set tiebreak

Muguruza’s error count rises as Halep leads 4-3 now. The Spaniard ends the streak with a deep backhand return which Halep is unable to get back. Halep with a missed forehand gives Muguruza the crucial mini break. A big serve down the tee is not returned and Muguruza, at 6-4, has two set points. Muguruza with a forehand long after a six shot rally and that’s one saved, one left. Halep with a forehand winner down the line and this one has kissed the sideline on the tramline side to go by for a winner. 6-6 at the change of ends. Two set points come and gone for Muguruza

First set tiebreak

From 3-0 ahead, Garbine Muguruza throws away the advantage and lead to restore parity at change of ends. A backhand sails long and it is 3-3 at the change with Halep suddenly still in this tiebreak

Halep 6-6 *Muguruza (* denotes server)

Muguruza comes from the brink to hold serve. From 0-30 down she saves two break and set points to fend off the surge from Halep. And then converts the first game point chance that comes her way to hold and force a tiebreak

Halep* 6-5 Muguruza (* denotes server)

Simona Halep with clenched fist walks up to her chair after holding serve. The momentum is going her way and Muguruza has suddenly lost way of things. From serving for the set, she will now serve to stay in it.

Halep 5-5 *Muguruza (* denotes server)

Halep breaks back! Simona Halep has three break point chances after a poor service game from Muguruza. And the break point highlights Simo’s incredible fighting spirit. Twice, at least, she appears to have lost the point but keeps going. Forces Muguruza into a nervous drop shot attempt but it doesn’t go over. Break back for Halep!

Former Russian World No. 1 and Australian Open 2009 finalist Dinara Safina was there to greet Sofia Kenin after her win earlier today. Kenin was born in Moscow, Russia before moving to the US as a two-year-old.

Halep* 4-5 Muguruza (* denotes server)

A love hold from Simona Halep as Muguruza makes mistakes on backhand and then is unable to get the serve back. Opportunity now for Garbine to close things out.

Halep 3-5 *Muguruza (* denotes server)

Muguruza goes from 30-15 up to 30-40 down and seeing another challenge to her serve. But that window of opportunity is swiftly shut with a forehand winner. On comes a backhand winner on game point and Muguruza consolidates the break

Halep* 3-4 Muguruza (* denotes server)

Muguruza looks to be out of the point but she not only stays in it but she turns the low ball into a winning opportunity. A slice forehand down the line to see Halep scramble but be unable to do much with the backhand. It brings up break point and Muguruza gets the first break with a backhand drive volley winner. BREAK!

Halep 3-3 *Muguruza (* denotes server)

Garbine Muguruza with another hold and she lets slip two points again. Almost like a theme to her serve now. Credit to Halep though for always pushing the Spaniard what with both players not the biggest servers

Halep* 3-2 Muguruza (* denotes server)

Winners on both wings from Muguruza brings up two break points now for the Spaniard. One is saved by Halep with a forehand winner and the second sees Muguruza almost rush herself into going for too much and sending the forehand long. A couple of mistakes on deuce and Halep holds. First set remains on serve with Halep now saving two break points

Halep 2-2 *Muguruza (* denotes server)

Muguruza with another tough hold having dropped two points on serve. But this time she doesn’t have to endure the challenge of break point(s). Stays even in the first set

Meanwhile, Roger Federer will take court in the semifinal against Novak Djokovic, says host broadcaster. The Swiss, 20-time grand slam winner, is struggling with a groin injury having been pushed by Sandgren and Millman with his on court time reading over 12 hours!

Channel 9 here in Australia reporting that Federer has confirmed to organisers that he will take to the court tonight against Djokovic. #AusOpen

— The Tennis Podcast (@TennisPodcast) January 30, 2020

Halep* 2-1 Muguruza (* denotes server)

A rapidfire game from Simona Halep. Almost moving from one side of the court to serve to the next as Muguruza struggles to get the ball back. Love hold for the Romanian

Halep 1-1 *Muguruza (* denotes server)

Muguruza overcooks her backhand and it lands wide to give Simona a break point chance in the first game itself. And it is squandered. A second serve and there for Halep to attack but she sends the backhand flush into the net. At deuce, she takes the ball early and rides into the backhand to find the outside of the line for a winner. Another break point comes and goes in a flash. Muguruza with a thundering serve and couple of shots to bring the game back to deuce. Back-to-back forehand winners from Muguruza to hold serve having saved two break points there.

Halep* 1-0 Muguruza (* denotes server)

Bit of a hiccup for Simona Halep in the opening service game but she holds in the end after two minutes.

On we go then!

It's go time.

Unseeded Spaniard @GarbiMuguruza is eyeing her first Grand Slam final since 2017 Wimbledon.#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/Yuc8K4zolx

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 30, 2020

Simona Halep serves first

At the coin toss, Garbine Muguruza got the right prediction and chose to receive serve while staying on what looks to be a shadier side of the court.

Head-to-head: Muguruza 3-2

Muguruza holds a 3-2 career head-to-head record against Halep. Their last meeting was at the French Open in 2018, when the Romanian won en route to the title. The Spaniard holds a perfect 3-0 record over Halep on hard courts.

Halep vs Muguruza

The Romanian has a best showing of final at the Australian Open in 2018. She then lost to Caroline Wozniacki who was also seeking her first major title at the time. The Spaniard hasn’t progressed beyond the quarters in Melbourne. She lost in 2017 to CoCo Vandeweghe in the last-eight

Halep vs Muguruza in second semifinal

We shift our focus to Simona Halep vs Garbine Muguruza in the second semi-final. Both former World No. 1s and both two-time grand slam winners. Both have a French Open and Wimbledon titles in the bag.

Australia’s wait continues…

1978 was the last time Australia witnessed one of their own lift the trophy in Melbourne. Chris O’Neil lifted the men’s title at the Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club. That wait gets longer and will have to wait for 2021….

Sofia Kenin carries the American flag into the final

Grand Slam singles finalists from the USA in the last decade

Serena Williams
Venus Williams
Sloane Stephens
Madison Keys
Sofia Kenin

— Christopher Clarey 🇺🇸 🇫🇷 🇪🇸 (@christophclarey) January 30, 2020

Sofia Kenin upon saving two set points in the second, breaking Barty and then converting her second match point opportunity for a place in the final.

Stat attack!

Sofia Kenin is the youngest Australian Open finalist since Ana Ivanovic in 2008.

Kenin: “Thank you everyone for this moment. I know it wasn’t easy and she doesn’t make it easy either. Honestly I’m speechless and thankful for this. I’ve worked hard, thank you to everyone here and to everyone back home. She came up with some big shots and I knew she wasn’t going to give it easy. No wonder she’s the World No. 1!”

Sofia is reminded of partnering Jim Courier, the host on court, when she was just 7. Says, “I think we won. I was a feisty little kid!”

Sofia Kenin is into the final

American 21-year-old Sofia Kenin is into the Australian Open final having beaten Ashleigh Barty 7-6, 7-5 in an hour and 45 minutes. Unbelievable! Two set points saved in first set and again in the second to win.

Barty* 6-7, 5-7 Kenin (* denotes server)

Ashleigh Barty is serving to stay in the match. She starts with a double fault – the first of her match. And then a forehand error after being pushed all the way by Kenin. 0-30 and the crowd gets even more silent. They jump back up right away with a forehand winner coming from the Australian’s racket. And now another missed forehand gives Kenin two match points. Barty with a sublime and almost casual forehand winner cross court winner after 17 shots. One more opportunity still for Sofia. Kenin pushes Barty into a corner and forces an error. GAME, SET, MATCH SOFIA KENIN!

Barty 6-7, 5-6 *Kenin (* denotes server)

Once again Kenin highlights she is great in the big leagues already. A love hold follows that nervous break in the previous game that came moments after saving two set points. Staggeringly calm!

Barty* 6-7, 5-5 Kenin (* denotes server)

Ashleigh Barty serving for the second set. Kenin with two forehand errors at the start of the service game. Has one point back with a smash. Barty with a big forehand and Kenin is unable to get the ball back. That gives the Aussie two set points. The 21-year-old American with another drop shot with Barty in the back and closes the point with a comfortable volley winner. Another chance for Ash and this one is saved as well with Barty sending her forehand long after a 10 shot rally. Suddenly, Kenin has a break point with a forehand missed from Ash. The break point, first for Kenin, opportunity is quickly shut with a missed backhand. She brings up one more with a forehand cross court passing shot past Barty. A hapless lob from Kenin to just the keep the ball in play and Barty has missed the simple drive volley. She would make it nine times out of 10! BREAK BACK!

Barty 6-7, 5-4 *Kenin (* denotes server)

Sofia with a backhand error and it is 30-30 from 30-0. Chance for Ash to get the job done in this game itself. Once again, a drop shot follows fierce hitting from the back and Barty is unable to keep the ball in play. The American has done really well with those drop shots and the accuracy has been pretty incredible too. Barty with a missed backhand and Kenin bounces to her chair. She is not going to give anything away.

Barty* 6-7, 5-3 Kenin (* denotes server)

Another straightforward hold for Ashleigh Barty. She holds at 40-15 following a Kenin error on the backhand with Barty forcing it. On to Kenin to serve and prolong this set then…

How bloody good is that from Ashleigh Barty?

Backhand slice DTL winner.#AusOpen #Barty pic.twitter.com/LrlHUVmqxx

— Tennis GIFs 🎾🎥 (@tennis_gifs) January 30, 2020

Barty 6-7, 4-3 *Kenin (* denotes server)

Barty continues the onslaught into the receiving game and the crowd roars alongside. Just when it looked like Barty has the momentum and could well run away with things from now, Kenin comes back with confident shots to hold her serve and to hush the crowd once again

Barty* 6-7, 4-2 Kenin (* denotes server)

Ash with two absolutely gorgeous and HOW-DID-YOU-DO-THAT backhan slices which land in out of absolute nowhere. Nothing Kenin could do to get them back. Such effortlessly played and Kenin can only look and see the ball land in. Has a look at her father and coach in sheer helplessness.

Barty 6-7, 3-2 *Kenin (* denotes server)

Lovely backhand drop shot from Kenin catches Barty off guard. The Aussie, usually swift on her feet, is unable to get it back. She reaches out to it but the angle across is too much to work with. A hold for Sofia.

Barty* 6-7, 3-1 Kenin (* denotes server)

Barty looked to have a comfortable hold to follow the break but suddenly it doesn’t look all that easy. Ash pushed with two consecutive mistakes but a big serve gets her out of the cage.

Barty 6-7, 2-1 *Kenin (* denotes server)

Barty with a forehand winner to bring the game to 30-30 and an opportunity to open the door. And she has opened the door even more with a sublime backhand slider that rushes on to Kenin and the American is unable to react in time. Break point chance and Kenin with a backhand error. BREAK!

Barty* 6-7, 1-1 Kenin (* denotes server)

Ashleigh with her own big, quick service effort. Just the one point lost and she goes about moving to the deuce court to face the Kenin serve.

Barty 6-7, 0-1 *Kenin (* denotes server)

Kenin gets the ball rolling in the second set and does a good job of it once again. Withstands an exquisite top spin laden lob winner from Barty as the solitary point lost before holding serve

First set: Sofia Kenin! 

Super Sonya!

Kenin saves two set points and then promptly capitalizes on her first! The 21-year-old slips over the finish line 7-6(6).#AusOpen | #AO2020 pic.twitter.com/cWzBDdnUti

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 30, 2020

First set: Sofia Kenin 7-6 (6)

Sofia Kenin is one set away from her maiden grand slam final after saving three break points earlier in the set and then two set points in the tiebreak. A 59 minute set and Barty would rue the opportunities lost including the 21 unforced errors.

First set tiebreak

Kenin keeps her head to pick up a drop shot, move back and take the lob with a drive volley. Clenches her first for what is her first set point chance. Barty once again bounces into place to attack the second serve but this time the forehand is into the net. First set, Kenin 7-6 (6)!

First set tiebreak

Barty with bit of a hasty forehand and it is into the bottom of the net. And then she misses another forehand to throw away the advantage. Had the court open for her to take command but sends it well long. 4-4 quickly becomes 5-4 for Barty with a forehand winner this time. A very fluctuating effort on the groundstrokes from the Aussie. Make that back-to-back forehand winners. Jumps around, gets in place for the jump serve and spanks a cross court forehand winner. 6-4 now and set points chances. Barty with a backhand slice into the net and that’s one saved from Kenin. Second set point is saved as well. Big service return and then an equally impressive forehand winner by going behind Barty. 6-6 at the change

First set tiebreak

Couple of mini-breaks to get things going in the first set tiebreak. Kenin with smart, smart play to push Barty into the corner, bring out a slider backhand and then moves in for the kill at the net. Staying on serve so far with Kenin 2-1 ahead in the tiebreak. An ace and then a big first serve by Barty to make it 3-2. Barty with a forehand winner down the line for the mini break at change of ends. The Aussie 4-2 ahead with her 20th winner of the match.

Barty 6-6 *Kenin (* denotes server)

At 30-30, a Kenin forehand looks to have landed long but players play on. Barty almost considered stopping and challenging but she played on and lost the point. Had she challenged, inform the commentators, it would have landed long. However, as things progress, a hold for Kenin to force a tiebreak.

Barty* 6-5 Kenin (* denotes server)

Barty with forehand misses back-to-back. First time in the match that Ash has lost the opening point of her serve and then the second. Kenin beats herself up with a forehand missed and that brings it to 15-30. A decent serve sees Kenin’s attempt land wide. A challenge follows but it is out and the American is now out of challenges. Barty with a forehand winner into open court to bring up game point. On the second serve, Kenin attacks and forces Barty into a mistake. Deuce. Big point! Barty with a really strong serve out wide and Kenin has no answer. Another forehand missed by Barty even with the court gaping and Kenin left in no position to get it back. A miss on the serve on the deuce side has Ash with another chance to hold but the door is shut once again with a running forehand down the line winner. At deuce, Barty with an inside out forehand winner. Crowd stands and applauds! ACE! Barty finally holds.

Barty 5-5 *Kenin (* denotes server)

Barty with a little shake of the head as her forehand lands just wide. Didn’t get the timing quite right on that one and Kenin with a hold without being pushed for much.

Barty* 5-4 Kenin (* denotes server)

At 40-0, a shanked forehand by Barty – totally getting the timing wrong and it lands well wide. Why is that important? That’s the first point she’s lost on her first serve. She’s now 11/12 on first serve points won. Kenin misses a forehand and that’s a hold for Barty

Barty 4-4 *Kenin (* denotes server)

Bit of a silent end to Kenin’s service hold as Barty is unable to get the ball back. Falls short at her feet at the baseline. Disappointing though that the crowd doesn’t applaud and acknowledge the effort of a non-Aussie player…

Barty and Aussie fans out in full force despite the heat. 

👏👏👏@ashbarty fans out in force 🇦🇺 #AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/W5BA937BgN

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 30, 2020

Barty* 4-3 Kenin (* denotes server)

Kenin with her head in her hands and as does her corner. She lets go of the racket and falls to her feet. A point that was there for the American for the taking and it has been squandered. Perfectly disguised drop shot has Barty at the net and then rushing back, the Aussie gets the lob going and then gets two shots back – a smash and then a straightforward volley for Kenin to put into open court but it is hit into the net. A love hold in the end for Barty

Barty 3-3 *Kenin (* denotes server)

Slim margins on display in the Kenin serve. She missed a second serve for a double by a small, small point. And then sends her backhand wide narrowly as well. Two break points for Barty. Both saved with the Aussie continuing to make mistakes on the backhand side. Going for her sliced backhand to keep the ball low and hitting the net on both instances. The plan from Kenin is clear now and Barty has to get that backhand more in play to make a dent. Barty with a flat backhand winner to bring up a third break point. And it is saved once again with a backhand error. Kenin has the chance to hold but she makes a mistake of her own. A lovely, side spin heavy backhand has Barty scrambling but unable to get the ball back. And Kenin gets the job done by pushing Barty into an error. Pump of the fist from Kenin.

Barty* 3-2 Kenin (* denotes server)

ACE, ACE, ACE! Ash takes her tally of aces to six after just three service games. 155 kmph, 175 kmph and 154 kmph. Barty has made 7 errors on the backhand side but is bridging that gap with impressive serves.

Barty 2-2 *Kenin (* denotes server)

A love hold for Kenin as well. Nerves? Pressure? What nerves? What pressure? A gorgeous backhand lob over Barty and then an ace down the tee to hold serve. So far so good for the American.

Barty* 2-1 Kenin (* denotes server)

An extremely solid service game from Barty. 179 and 173 kmph serve aces to go 30-0 up followed by a serve out wide to then send a winner. A love hold for Barty after Kenin is unable to get the serve back

Barty 1-1 *Kenin (* denotes server)

A hold at 40-30 for Kenin as well to level the match. Needed to get that hold to settle the early nerves slightly and she’s done that. Did help with Barty taking her unforced errors tally to six. (Kenin has 3)

Barty* 1-0 Kenin (* denotes server)

A comfortable hold in the end for Ashleigh. Had wee bit trouble in getting the first serve going but closes it out with a serve down the tee and Kenin’s reach out to get it back isn’t successful.

Ready, play!

Ashleigh Barty starts to serve after a moment’s display as the crowd roars in support of the Queenslander who is hoping to end their wait for a home winner (52 years) or at least a home finalist (15 years).

Moments away from start to play

Our first women's semifinal is on!@ashbarty holds the 4-1 edge in the head-to-head while @SofiaKenin earned her win over the world No. 1 in 2019.#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/qZTXGh8Vvv

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 30, 2020

Barty to serve first

Both players on court. Sofia Kenin is followed by Ashleigh Barty. The Aussie has won the toss and chosen to serve first. Nice bit of touch from the World No. 1: telling the little girl with the coin toss for a job well done. Gotta love players who are nice and polite to the ball kids!

It is 37 degrees in Melbourne. Barty wouldn’t mind that all that much. But it could affect the proceedings. 

For the first time this #AusOpen, focus has been on the heat stress rather than air quality.

If it hits 4.0 then a 10-minute break between the second and third sets is allowed in the women's semi-finals.

If it hits 5.0 the match would stop and the roof closed.#bbctennis pic.twitter.com/386xIK1VzA

— Jonathan Jurejko (@J_Jurejko) January 30, 2020

On Sofia Kenin : One of the crucial tasks for Kenin will be to push Barty behind the baseline with her deep drives, and avoid making too many errors while she’s at it. Barty is a fabulous defender but she’s most comfortable when she’s playing a match on her terms, so Kenin could gain an upper hand if she can dictate the rallies from the middle of the court.

On Ashleigh Barty : Barty is is the first Aussie – male or female – to reach the semi-finals of Australian Open since Lleyton Hewitt in 2005. For Ash, the challenge is not just about what has happened in the past but also what comes next, for her personally and for Australia.

Sofia Kenin in an old footage where she talks about how she will face Andy Roddick’s big, booming serve. She was just 7!

Battle thoughts? Whatever that means, by Australian Open.  

Who will rise?@ashbarty and @SofiaKenin tussle in the semifinals. But first, share their perspective.

This is Battle Thoughts, presented by Canadian Club#AO2020 | #AusOpen | #canadianclub pic.twitter.com/oU3hgpDVWY

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 30, 2020

Kenin’s record against World No 1 players: 2-2

The American lost to Simona Halep in the second round here last year and later beat Naomi Osaka in Cincinnati. Her next two meetings have come against Barty

Head-to-head

Barty holds a 4-1 career head-to-head record over Sofia Kenin, including victory in their last meeting (Wuhan)

Kenin’s only win over Barty has come on a hard court: in Toronto last year. Yet, Barty holds a 2-1 advantage on hard courts

Some factoids to get the ball rolling:

Ashleigh Barty is the first Australian woman to reach the semi-finals at this tournament since Wendy Turnbull 36 years ago.

She has been beyond the quarterfinals of a major only once: when she won at Roland Garros last year.

Kenin has reached this stage of the competition without having faced a seeded player.

Hello and welcome to our live coverage of Australian Open. Three singles semi-fianls are lined up for today. Local hero Ash Barty will take on Sofia Kenin in the first match while Simona Halep will clashes against unseeded Garbine Muguruza. Novak Djokovic is scheduled to play the great Roger Federer in the evening.