Australian Open 2017, Day 12, as it happened: Rafael Nadal wins in 5 thrilling sets to set up final against Roger Federer

Order of play on centre court at the Australian Open on Saturday (x denotes seeding):

Rod Laver Arena

2:00 PM IST (0830 GMT)

Venus Williams (USA x13) v Serena Williams (USA x2)

Henri Kontinen (FIN)/John Peers (AUS x4) v Bob Bryan/Mike Bryan (USA x3)

Before we sign off, here’s our throwback of the day! From the last time Federer and Nadal played in the Australian Open final in 2009.

We can’t wait for the finals!

Between them, they've won 60 Grand Slam singles titles. The finals are locked in and it's a legends only reunion.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/IFunF9ud05

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

This has been a record-breaking Grand Slam throughout

This is the first time in the Open Era that all four finalists at a slam are aged 30+.

Venus (36), Serena (35), Federer (35), Nadal (30)

— Stuart Fraser (@stu_fraser) January 27, 2017

Between the four singles finalists, they share SIXTY Grand Slam titles.

Serena Williams – 22

Roger Federer – 17

Rafale Nadal – 14

Venus Williams – 7

Yeah, this will do.

Predictions? pic.twitter.com/KHwdy8w9Kz

— Lindsay Gibbs (@linzsports) January 27, 2017

Here all the head-to-head numbers:

Nadal vs Federer

Nadal leads 23-11
In finals Nadal leads 14-7
At Aus Open Nadal leads 3-0
In Grand Slams Nadal leads 9-2 (6-2 in finals)

— Christopher Clarey 🇺🇸 🇫🇷 🇪🇸 (@christophclarey) January 27, 2017

So the Australian Open men’s final has been decided

No. 9 Rafael Nadal vs No. 17 Roger Federer

Rafael Nadal is through to his 4th Australian Open final!

The Spaniard defeats Grigor Dimitrov 6-3, 5-7, 7-6(5), 6-7(4), 6-4 in 4 hours and 56 minutes.

Rafael Nadal is through to his 4th Australian Open final!

The Spaniard defeats Grigor Dimitrov 6-3, 5-7, 7-6(5), 6-7(4), 6-4 in 4 hours and 56 minutes.

Nadal wins 6-4 in the 5th

Nadal wins the first point as Dimitrov sends his backhand long. 15-0.

Another long forehand from Dimitrov and it’s 30-0 in Nadal’s favour. 

Nadal with an unforced error and it’s 15-30. 

Dimitrov with a sensational forehand pass on full stretch, Nadal can’t control the volley and Dimitrov wins the point. 30-30.

Nadal with a huge serve that clips the line and it’s MATCH POINT for Nadal. 

Courageous point from Dimitrov, long rally and Dimitrov comes into th net. Saves match point as he smashes it to make deuce. 

Superb serve from Nadal and it’s MATCH POINT #2.

Second match point saved by Dimitrov with a forehand winner down the line. Deuce again.

Dimitrov’s return was just long and it’s MATCH POINT #3 for Nadal. 

Dimitrov sends a backhand long and NADAL WINS!

Dimitrov broken and trails 4-5

Nadal hits a surreal forehand winner that just clips the line to make it 0-15.

Double fault from Dimitrov and it’s 0-30.

Nadal sends his forehand long and it’s 15-30. 

Smacking forehand from Dimitrov and he makes it 30-30. 

Nadal gets lucky as Dimitrov’s forehand kisses the net and goes out. 

BREAK POINT for Nadal and he converts!

Nadal will now serve for a place in the final at 5-4.

Nadal saves two break points for a 4-4 hold

0-30 window for Dimitrov on Nadal’s serve. 

Nadal wins the next point by slicing it with lots of top spin. 

Dimitrov wins the next point with an overhead smash and brings up two BREAK POINTS! 15-40.

Nadal saves the first with a long rally, pushes Dimitrov out wide and then hits a backhand winner down the line. 30-40.

Another lovely point from Nadal – perfectly constructed – finishes with a sweet drop shot. Deuce.

Nadal with a tremendous hold. So clutch on break points. 4-4.

Dimitrov holds for 4-3

Deuce on Dimitrov’s serve.

And then Dimitrov serves out a whooper. He gets advantage and holds with a brilliant forehand winner.

And look at Dimitrov right now! Keeping up with Nadal in the 5th set after 4 hours and 30 minutes of play.

He’s come a damn long way. https://t.co/seC81lCbaS

— Courtney Nguyen (@FortyDeuceTwits) January 27, 2017

Quick love-hold for Nadal and it’s 3-3. 

Time and energy conservation will be important for both players in this 5th set. Already past midnight in Melbourne. 

Remember, Roger Federer has one extra day of rest before the final as he played his match on Thursday. Will that make a difference on Sunday?

Massive hold for Dimitrov after saving break point

Nadal makes it 30-30 after 0-30. 

And then Dimitrov hits a backhand into the net and it’s break point for Nadal. 

Big serve from Dimitrov and Nadal commits an error on return. It’s DEUCE.

Another monstrous serve from the Bulgarian and he brings up game point. 

Dimitrov holds with a smash!

Nadal makes it 2-2

Insane level of tennis from both players. This 5th set is turning into one of the best in the tournament so far. It’s on serve at 2-2.

Two sets all
Two games all

4h22

00.10am local.

— José Morgado (@josemorgado) January 27, 2017

The quality of tennis is absolutely terrific between Nadal & Dimitrov. Most impressive is to see how composed they are 4+hrs in#AusOpen

— Irina Falconi (@IrinaFalconi) January 27, 2017

The first of those two jaw-dropping points.

ok pic.twitter.com/L4NE4plDfv

— Ricky Dimon (@Dimonator) January 27, 2017

My jaw is on the floor. These points hurt my legs just watching.

— Joey Hanf (@TheTennisNerds) January 27, 2017

Dimitrov holds for 2-1

Two absolutely brilliant points back-to-back from Dimitrov and then he comes up with an ace to grind out a hold from 15-15. 

The second point that Dimitrov won was off a gorgeous pick up off his shoelaces.

21 minutes into the 5th set it’s 1-1

Dimitrov attacks the Nadal serve, and gets rewarded with 0-30. 

A really long, grinding rally and Nadal forces Dimitrov out wide, gets a short return, comes into the net and then wins the point. 15-30.

Huge serve from Nadal drags Dimitrov wide on his backhand and then Nadal hits the forehand behind him to make it 30-30.

Gorgeous backhand down the line winner from Dimitrov and he has a break point!

Dimitrov can’t control his forehand on the next point and it goes to deuce. 

Nadal holds after two errors from Dimitrov. It’s just 1-1 and two games have already taken 21 minutes.

Dimitrov holds for 1-0

Crazy, long opening game to open the 5th set. 

Nadal had two break points, Dimitrov saved both, it went to two more deuces, Nadal created one more, couldn’t convert it and we are back at deuce. 

After 13 minutes, Dimitrov finally holds! What a massive, massive game from him.

The last time both men's semifinals went to 5 sets at the #AusOpen was 2002 - Thomas Johansson d. Jiri Novak, Marat Safin d. Tommy Haas

— ITF (@ITFTennis) January 27, 2017

How do you say "c'mon" in Bulgarian?#ausopen pic.twitter.com/suNteeL9MF

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

Time to have a look at the stats! 61 winners from Dimitrov and they helped him win the 4th set.

We agree!

This has been the most enjoyable major for me to watch in many years. Incredible quality of play, unreal storylines.

— Joey Hanf (@TheTennisNerds) January 27, 2017

Grigor Dimitrov has levelled the semi-final against Rafael Nadal by winning the 4th set tie-break. 

After 3 hours and 55 minutes, the score reads 6-3, 5-7, 7-6(5), 6-7(4).

Dimitrov wins the 4th set and tie-break

Dimitrov steps in on the previous point to win it. 

He serves and vollleys on his 1st set point, but Nadal passes him with ease. 4-6. 

On his second set point, Dimitrov fires a brilliant serve down the tee and wins the set after Nadal can’t return it!

Dimitrov comes up with a timely ace, makes it 5-2.

Nadal holds on his next point, courtesy a Dimitrov error and it’s 3-5. 

THREE SET POINTS FOR DIMITROV. 3-6.

Dimitrov with the mini-break, leads 4-2

Nadal’s turn to come with up with a humoungous winner to make it 2-2. 

But Nadal drops the next point to gibe the first mini-break to Dimitrov.

Dimitrov serves a beauty out wide, comes into the net and smashes a winner into the open court. He leads 4-2.

No mini-breaks so far, Dimitrov at 2-1

Nadal wins the first point of the 4th set tie-break as Dimitrov overcooks his forehand. 

Dimitrov hits a HUGE inside-out forehand winner that Nadal challenges but Hawk-Eye shows that it just touched the line. 

Dimitrov with another stunning cross-court winner, this time off his backhand and it’s 2-1 on serve.

We have another tie-break!

30-0 for Dimitrov to start his must-win game. 

He fires a perfectly-placed ace at 224 kmph to bring up game point. 40-0.

Dimitrov double faults and it’s 40-15. 

The 15th seed hits forehand that clips the line and holds for 6-6.

It’s 3 hours 40 minutes into the match but both the players are running ravage. No signs of letting up. Can Dimitrov hold to take it to a tie-break?

Vintage point by #Nadal at 30-30, 5-5.. Scrambling, retrieving every ball! One game away again, 6-5 in 4th.#AusOpen

— Mert Ertunga (@MertovsTDesk) January 27, 2017

Nadal holds for 6-5

Dimitrov gets to 30-30. Small window of opportunity for the Bulgarian.

Long, intense rally of 21 shots and Dimitrov tries to end it wait a drop shot but it hits the net post and bounces back on his side. 

Game point for Nadal and he gets lucky again at the net and wins the point. 6-5.

One game away from a final against Federer.

Dimitrov stays alive

A quick love-hold with an ace to seal it and Dimitrov makes it 5-5.

Nadal edges ahead 5-4

Despite a smashing inside-out forehand winner from Dimitrov to make it 0-15, Nadal holds quite comfortably to lead 5-4 in the 4th set.

Rafael Nadal is now just *ONE* game away from reaching the Australian Open 2017 final.

Interesting stat that just popped up on our TV screens:

Rafael Nadal 31 winners, 31 unforced errors

Grigor Dimitrov 50 winners, 50 unforced errors

Still even in the 4th set, 4-4.

Dimitrov nets a backhand and it’s 15-15. Dangerous times for him as he *must* hold every game from here and then try and break Nadal somehow.

Three more errors from Nadal and Dimitrov holds. 4-4.

The speed of Rafa.#ausopen pic.twitter.com/ZSIZ2FKiPb

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

Nadal smashes to a 4-3 lead 

Dimitrov overreaches and Nadal gets the first point, but makes it 15-15 with a hit at the net. 
An 18-shot long crosscourt rally follows, with Nadal hitting one out, when he misses the angle on his backhand.
But he quickly makes up for it with a powerful smash that flummoxes Dimitrov, who hits another backhand at the net.
A wide shot makes it 4-3 in Nadal’s favor after an unsuccessful review.

If Nadal wraps this up in 4, he'll have played *90* fewer minutes than vs. Verdasco in 2009, and Verdasco pushed him a LOT more than Grigor.

— Matt Zemek (@mzemek) January 27, 2017

Dimitrov makes it 3-3

Nadal drives a backhand into the net to give Dimitrov the first point, but promptly follows wth his own shot at the net to level 15-15.
But Dimitrov induces a wayward shot to make it 30-15, before hitting his own outside for 30-30.
The Bulgarian then unleashes his big serve at an sharp angle and noses ahead and gets the game with another outside by Nadal.
3-3 in the fourt set

At 3-2 in fourth, Nadal-Dimitrov already 8 min longer than Federer-Wawrinka, a 3h05m five-setter with off-court medical timeouts.#AusOpen

— Ben Rothenberg (@BenRothenberg) January 27, 2017

Nadal muscles through 3-2 lead 

Dimitrov drops one right on the line to take the first point thanks to his classic backhand winner, before Nadal evens it out.
Nadal’s incisive serve is answered by a massive smash and an unforced error, levelling the game at 30-30.
A 21-shot long rally follows, where Nadal sneaks one past an close approaching Dimitrov to take the lead and a wayward shot gives the Spaniard a 3-2 lead in the fourth set.

Dimitrov, 48 winners, 45 unforced
Rafa: 28 winners, 25 unforced

at 2-2 set four.

— Chris Oddo (@TheFanChild) January 27, 2017

Fourth set even at 2-2 

Comfortable holds for both players as they even out the fourth set.

Dimitrov shows another glimpse of his classic backhand, as well as his unwitting unforced errors in the fourth game.
The Bulgarian will need more that trusty one-handed shot if he wants to outplay Nadal who looks to be giving no free points.
The Spaniard pulls the game to deuce with a timely smash, but Dimitrov comes through.

Nadal starts off the 4th set with an easy hold

The Spaniard is serving first in the 4th set and will always have the advantage of leading 2-1. Could easily put a lot of pressure on every Dimitrov game. The Bulgarian needs to come up with something special to force a fifth and deciding set.

Nadal was pumped after winning that tie-break!

Rafa wins the third set! #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/zWOZFLkE8t

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

After 70 minutes of gruelling tennis, here’s what the numbers say. 

Nadal's will won that 3rd set. Dimitrov pushed with all his might. Nadal's ability to absorb a couple of Dimitrov backhand bombs turned it.

— David Law (@DavidLawTennis) January 27, 2017

Nadal wins the third set and now leads 6-3, 5-7, 7-6(5) over Grigor Dimitrov. 

Nadal puts tremendous pressure on Dimitrov’s backhand and wins the point after a really tense, long rally. What an incredible tie-break.

Nadal nets a forehand and we are back on serve in the tie-break. 5-5.

Dimitrov makes it 4-5 with an ace but still trails by a mini-break. Nadal two points away from winning the 3rd set.

Uncle Toni can't handle it 😅😅😅#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/0VFah7g1E2

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

After a long rally, Dimitrov guessed right on Nadal’s smash but couldn’t get it over the net. Nadal up 4-2.

Nadal edges ahead 3-1 in the tie-break

Another backhand error from Dimitrov and Nadal gets the first mini-break in the TB.

Dimitrov stays strong on his backhand and forces the errors from Nadal to get back on serve. 1-1.

Fabulous serve from Nadal down the tee and he comes in to hit an inside-out forehand winner. 2-1 to Nadal.

Dimitrov can’t keep his backhand in and now trails 3-1.

Nadal forces a tie-break at 6-6

Play resumes and Dimitrov sends his forehand long to hand Nadal the first point. 

The Spaniard comes up with a sliding serve that Dimitrov can’t return on the next point. 30-0. 

Nadal makes it 40-0 by rushing to the net to finish off a rally after Dimitrov drops a backhand really short at full stretch. Nadal holds and into the tie-break we go.

Impatient players, impatient fans

Restless legs on #RLA #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/lu9uiLuWaW

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

Federer fans, what do you make of this match so far?

this is an outstanding tennis match...

...for Roger Federer's confidence.

— Ricky Dimon (@Dimonator) January 27, 2017

There is a fan being tended to in Rod Laver Arena, which is delaying the resumption of play.

— TENNIS (@Tennis) January 27, 2017

Match interrupted

Small pause in the match as some spectator fainted in the crowd. Dimitrov waits impatiently, while Nadal hits a few practice shots.

Dimitrov holds for 6-5

Dimitrov starts with a bit of a brain freeze in his game – went for a reverse smash on Nadal’s return, ended up sending it really long. 

Nadal misses an open pass opportunity on the next point and it’s 15-15.

On 15-30, Nadal hits an unforced error to make it 30-30.

Nadal tries to change direction and hit a forehand down the line, ends up hitting it wide. Game point for Dimitrov.

Dimitrov then hits his backhand return wide and we are at deuce in this all-important game. 

Dimitrov comes into the net oon the next point and gets lucky as Nadal can’t make the pass and ends up netting it. 

The 15th seed holds with a big serve. Gets out of jail big time! Nadal will once again serve to stay alive in this set and take it to a tie-break.

Nadal makes it 5-5

Nadal rushes to a 30-0 lead with a couple of meaty serves. 

He then sends a forehand long to give Dimitrov the point. 30-15.

Unforced error from Dimitrov and it’s 40-15. 

Impressive forehand from Nadal with a lot of depth and spin on the next point and he holds for 5-5. Pressure on Dimitrov now.

Really impressed at Dimitrov’s level in this set. He has not faded off and is matching Nadal for quality. 

5-4 #Dimitrov. #Nadal shot a couple of looks to the box that game basically saying "can this guy play better right now???" #AusOpen

— Craig O'Shannessy 🇺🇦 (@BrainGameTennis) January 27, 2017

Dimitrov leads at 5-4

Beautiful backhand down the line winner form Dimitrov and he gets to 40-15 on his serve. 

SIX backhand winners from Dimitrov so far, to Nadal’s FOUR. 

Dimitrov goes ahead again by holding at 5-4. Nadal will now serve to stay in the third set.

Love-hold for Nadal and it’s 4-4. We are in the very interesting, closing stage of the third set. Difficult to predict who can take it from here. The momentum has been swinging wildly in this one.

Aww, Stan! That was such a good match that he played yesterday against Federer. 

When you come back from 0-2 in sets but still lose in the 5th 🚨🙈🤦🏻‍♂️🔫😭💥🤷🏻‍♂️🤔🙃💆🏻‍♂️😂🌚🐼🐻😘 pic.twitter.com/LEEY9Vylt1

— Stanislas Wawrinka (@stanwawrinka) January 27, 2017

Dimitrov holds for 4-3

A really good service game from Dimitrov when he needed it the most. He consolidates his break in the 3rd set and now edges ahead 4-3. This set is now back on serve but the 15th seed would want to put pressure on Nadal in the next game.

Nadal broken and it’s 3-3

Nadal saves three break points on his own serve.

At deuce, Dimitrov attacks the Nadal forehand and then hits a shot down the line to bring up break point again. 

On the fourth break point, Nadal gives Dimitrov a forehand error. Dimitrov is back on serve in the 3rd set. 3-3.

pic.twitter.com/MOxtqCcqat

— doublefault28 (@doublefault28) January 27, 2017

Dimitrov broken

It’s Nadal who draws first blood in the third set, breaking with another long rally. This has been such a physically-testing match. The Spaniard leads 3-2.

Nadal makes it 2-2

The quality of the tennis has gone through the roof in this third set. At 40-30, one long rally ensues of Dimitrov’s slice backhands to Nadal’s swinging forehands, as both players try and out-maneouvre the other. Nadal finally manages to put Dimitrov off his balance to hold.

What a start to the 3rd set!

After two easy holds, Dimitrov was under the pump by going down two break points after hitting a double fault. He saves the first with a smasher of a serve at just the right moment, and repeats it again the next point. Deuce. 

Dimitrov gets the advantage with a bit of luck, with a double let. And then holds for 2-1. Massive, massive hold for the Bulgarian.

Here are the numbers from the 2nd set. Nadal’s unforced errors rose from 2 to 12. But Dimitrov with 6 more winners than Nadal.

Very physical and engaging second set! Can they keep it up?

That is an EFFORT from Grigor. He is a on another level this year. How will these guys hold up physically? This has been *tough*

— Joey Hanf (@TheTennisNerds) January 27, 2017

Grigor Dimitrov levels the match against Nadal at one-set all by winning the second set. 3-6, 7-5.

Dimitrov breaks for 7-5

Nadal starts off his service game with a solid serve. 

Dimitrov with two deep ground strokes that Nadla can’t keep in on return. 15-30.

Nadal tries to pass Dimitrov once again but this time the Bulgarian was ready at the net and make a lunging full-stretch volley to bring up two more SET POINTS. 

Dimitrov converts on the very first one this time as Nadal sends a forehand flying long.

Dimitrov with a quick hold for 6-5

Dimitrov in a bit of trouble at 30-30. Hits an ace out wide to get game point. 

Then he hits another unreturnable serve, this time down the tee to make it 6-5.

Nadal will once again serve to keep himself in this set by forcing a tie-break.

Nadal saves 4 set points to hold for 5-5

Dimitrov chips and slices to put Nadal off and it works. He gets to 15-30 on the Spaniard’s serve but then hits a routine backhand long. 30-30.

Nadal with a brilliant serve but Dimitrov somehow gets it back on full stretch. Nadal can’t handle the volley at the net and it’s SET POINT for Dimitrov.

Nadal saves the set point with a stunning forehand winner with lots of top spin. Deuce. 

Dimitrov comes into the net with a great approach on the next point and then finishes it by hitting the ball into the open court. SET POINT #2. 

Dimitrov with a backhand shank that would make Federer proud after a long rally and it’s back on deuce. 

The 15th seed did really well to absorb all of Nadal’s deep forehands and moved the Spaniard all over the court. Nadal commits an error, dumps his shot into the net and it’s SET POINT #3.

Nadal saves it with a good serve out wide that Dimitrov returns long. Deuce for the third time. 

On his second serve, Dimitrov returns well and NAdal ends up sending his forehand really long. SET POINT #4. 

Nadal hits an ace! Dimitrov challenges but it’s in by millimetres. Deuce #4. This is turning out to be some game. 

Finally it’s game point for Nadal who gets his first serve going and then comes into the net to hammer his forehand past Dimitrov. Advantage Nadal. 

Nadal holds with a good serve that the 15th seed puts into the net.

Serving for the set under a lot of pressure, gets broken.

Nadal back on serve

Breaks on breaks!

Dimitrov falls behind 15-40, and then hits a horrendous forehand that lands way behind the baseline and Nadal is back in this set. 

The Spaniard will now serve to keep himself alive in the second at 4-5.

Dimitrov breaks again for 5-3

Dimitrov comes into the net at 15-30 but dumps his volley into the net. 

Dimitrov with a few deep backhand returns at 40-30 to force Nadal into an error. Deuce. 

Another solid return from Dimitrov and Nadal can’t control his forehand. Advantage Dimitrov.

Nadal returns the Bulgarian’s favour, double faults on break point. Dimitrov will now serve for the second set at 5-3.

Nadal breaks back

The Bulgarian starts with a double fault on his game. Nadal steps in close to the baseline to return the next serve, putting a lot of pressure on Dimitrov.

Dimitrov saved one break point on his serve but Nadal hit a stunning backhand pass to create another break point. 

Dimitrov with an untimely double fault to gift the break back in the second set. It’s 4-3.

THAT CRAZY AWESOME POINT FROM THE 2ND GAME. WATCH! 

HOT SHOT: Rafa #Nadal #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/carQ94rV6a

— Break Point (@BreakPointBR) January 27, 2017

Nadal stays in touch

Nadal lost the first point, but dragged Dimitrov way out wide on the second, and then hit a two-handed volley to seal the point. Nadal hammered two aces to make it 4-2 and ensure he doesn’t fall too far behind in the second set.

Dimitrov consolidates for 4-1

The 15th seed was in a bit of a hole at 15-30 but he did really well to hold serve with two winners off both wings each. Looking so much more confident now.

Australian Open 2017: Bethanie Mattek-Sands and Lucie Safarova clinch women’s doubles titlehttp://www.firstpost.com

Dimitrov will be hoping to win more than one set this time around!

In their 5 matches on hard court, Dimitrov has won at least a set.

He had chances to go 2 sets to 1 up in AusOpen 2014.

Nadal 6-3, 1-3.

— David Law (@DavidLawTennis) January 27, 2017

Dimitrov breaks for 3-1

After a quick hold, Dimitrov creates three break points on Nadal’s serve and then the Spaniard sends his forehand long to hand the game to Dimitrov. 

Nadal received a time violation from the chair umpire at 0-30. Could have thrown off his concentration for a bit.

Nadal’s coach Daniel Vallverdu is timing the time Nadal takes between two serves. He insists Nadal needs to get a time violation as he is taking too long.

Got somewhere to be, @danielvallverdu? 🤔😂 #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/20xJRQeAks

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

1-1 to start the second set

Two quick holds from both players and it’s 1-1 in the second set.

Nadal’s hold had THE point of the day so far. A crazy, long rally with great defensive skills from Dimitrov. The Bulgarian kept returning Nadal’s smashes from back in the court but the Spaniard didn’t flinch at the net. Nadal won the point after Dimitrov was unable to get the third straight smash back.

Here’s a look at the stats from the opening set. Nadal hit only TWO unforced errors. 

Nadal wants perfection in everything in his life…

They look pretty good to us, @RafaelNadal! #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/ABPlI5ATDi

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

Rafael Nadal leads by a set in the semi-final

It took Nadal just 35 minutes to win the first set 6-3 over Dimitrov. Almost flawless performance from the Spaniard so far.

Nadal wins 6-3

The 9th seed finally drops a point on his serve on the first point of his game. 

But it doesn’t change things much as he brings up two set points and then clinches the opener drop-dead gorgeous volley. Not much that Dimitrov could have done about that.

Dimitrov makes it 3-5

Dimitrov is putting up a better show on his service after that initial break. Another easy hold to 15 with a searing backhand down the line winner. Nadal to serve for the first set at 5-3.

Nadal is on fire

If #Nadal was super precise this fortnight, he's absolutely painting the lines now. The topspin making #Dimitrov uncomfortable. Love hold.

— Abigail Johnson (@abigailtennis) January 27, 2017

12 straight points on serve for Nadal

Nadal holds to love AGAIN as the errors pile up Dimitrov. The Spaniard is hitting winners off his forehand with so much ease. Dimitrov unable to trouble him at all. 5-2.

Perfect preparation for Nadal for the final if he wins

This is so reminiscent of Federer/Nadal....Same rhythm, same problematic match-up for the righty one-hander.

— Jon Wertheim (@jon_wertheim) January 27, 2017

Two easy holds for 4-2

Nadal consolidates his break at love and has now won eight consecutive points on his serve. Such a difference from that opening game. 

Dimitrov follows suit to stay in touch in the set. He holds with a fithy cross court backhand winner that whizzed past Nadal. 4-2.

Nadal breaks

Rafael Nadal with the first break of serve in the semi-final. Dimitrov comes into the net but his approach shot wasn’t a very good one Nadal easily passes with a forehand winner down the line to break him. Nadal leads 3-1.

This was such a close match! Who else remembers this clash from 2014?

The last time they played in Australia...#Nadal d. #Dimitrov 3-6 7-6(3) 7-6(7) 6-2 in 2014 #ausopen QF.#ausopen pic.twitter.com/CRn2XKDZM0

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

Nadal gets his forehand going

The 9th seed hit a smashing inside-out forehand at 40-15 to hold for 2-1. Much better service game from Nadal after the opening game jitters.

Dimitrov holds to love

Stark contrast in the two opening games of the match. Nadal stretched to three break points, while Dimitrov fires an ace in his game to comfortably hold to love. 1-1. The Bulgarian’s serve will be an important weapon for him if he has to win only his second match over Nadal.

Nadal starts the match by saving three break points

In the opening game of the semi-final, Nadal goes down 15-40 against Dimitrov. Saved both of those breaks points but Dimitrov creates another, thanks to a lucky net cord that drops the ball in his hitting zone. 

Nadal saves the third break point as well with a great 1-2 serve-and-forehand winner play. The Spaniard holds after Dimitrov dumps a backhand slice into the net.

Feisty start to the match!

Here’s how Mattek-Sands/Safarova celebrated their second Australian Open trophy 

Smooth moves, @BMATTEK and @luciesafarova ! Not a bad victory dance! ???????????? #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/rluxD9WOvW

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

Let’s do this! It’s last semi-final of Australian Open 2017.

The players are walking out on court right now. Dimitrov, as the lower seed, walks out ahead of Nadal.

Head-to-head:

Rafael Nadal dominates the H2H 7-1 but Grigor Dimitrov’s win came in their last meeting, which is their only meeting in the last 15 months (6-2, 6-4 in 2016 Beijing QF).

🏆🏆@BMattek & @LucieSafarova earn second @AustralianOpen title in 3 years --> https://t.co/7FB8UMWNZ6 pic.twitter.com/rWGCRlB694

— wta (@WTA) January 27, 2017

Australian Open 2017 men’s semis preview: Federer, Nadal’s quest for history in face of swift competitionhttp://www.firstpost.com

Coming up next:

No. 9 Rafael Nadal vs. No. 15 Grigor Dimitrov for a spot in the Australian Open final vs. No. 17 Roger Federer. Who will win it?

Watch this delightful presentation ceremony:

Women's doubles Championship presentation #MattekSands #Safarova #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/oWOL1gGXqi

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

1...2...3...jump!#ausopen pic.twitter.com/SPguHHkBiB

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

Teamwork makes the dream work!@luciesafarova & @BMATTEK capture second #ausopen doubles title 6-7(4) 6-3 6-3 over Peng/Hlavackova. pic.twitter.com/6P8AXAUTAn

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

Mattek-Sands/Safarova are women’s doubles champion!

The second seeds claim a 6-7 6-3 6-3 win over Hlavackova/Peng despite an initially topsy-turvy match.
This is their second Australian Open title together.

Safarova, serving for the title, starts strong as a shaky-looking Hlavackova drives her backhand outside for the first points. Mattek-Sands follows it with a cracking to-and-fro rally that ends with a crisp smash. 
Safarova hits the net to break the momentum though, but the second seeds claim two championship points with some deft hitting, before the World No 1 Mattek-Sands seals their title with a smash.

Hlavackova/Peng, serving to stay in the finals, get the first point thanks to an overreaching shot. A well-placed forehand gives them a 30-0 lead and another unforced error helps them hold at 3-5.

It’s all Mattek-Sands/Safarova in the third. Racing away with it after getting the early break off a Hlavackova DF. #AusOpen

— WTA Insider (@WTA_insider) January 27, 2017

Mattek-Sands/Safarova near finish line 

Safarova starts with a powerful smash at the net that Peng can’t reach. This is followed by Hlavackova and Mattek-Sands slug it out from the baseline and the World No 1 blinks first to committe an unforced error. But the Czech hits one out to restore the top seeds’ lead. Hlavackova makes up for it with a crisp smash and a missed shot from Safarova takes it to deuce. 
The 12th seeds huff another chance as Hlavackova drives her backhand into the net and follows it with a wayward shot to give the second seeds a 5-2 lead and direct shot at victory.

Peng on the serve now, but a clever game by Mattek-Sands and Safarova get them 3 breakpoint, once again.
The 12th seeds hang in and save all three with some terrific shots from Peng. Hlavackova hits a cracker smash at the net to take the advantage and a similar shot helps them hold as the third set stands 2-4.

Safarova starts their service game strong but is answered by a stunning crosscourt backhand by Peng, who consolidates further at 30-15.
But Peng hits one uncharacteristically wide and evens the game, and promptly makes up for it with a cracking smash to claim a breakpoint.
The game is brought to deuce and Peng plays another clever shot at the net to get another breakpoint.
Andother deuce follows, though, before Hlavackova’s forehand gets them another breakpoint, which is swiftly neutralised by Safarova.
Three breakpoints later, Mattek-Sand at the net swats the ball to get the advantage back and the second seeds hold in a crucial, crucial game to take a 4-1 lead in the decider.

Safarova starts with an unforced error on the Hlavackova serve, but nerves get the better of the Czech again as she double faults. Mattek-Sands miscues a shot at the net  and Peng punishes their error with a timely smash.
Mattek-Sands  then attempts another body shots, with Peng on the receiving end this time, and they get a deuce, which they swiftly convert to a breakpoint. Peng’s precision shot beings it back to deuce but Hlavackova hits one outside, gifting another breakpoint.
The first break in the third set goes to the second seeds as Hlavackova commits another double fault. 
the third set stands at 3-1.

Mixed Doubles Final

Abigail Spears and Juan Sebastian Cabal defeat Elina Svitolina and Chris Guccione 7-6, 6-2 in the 2nd mixed doubles semi-final. They will next play 2nd seeds Sania Mirza and Ivan Dodig in the final on Sunday.

Shadow Tennis.#ausopen pic.twitter.com/Li8ckqiHVb

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

Mattek-Sands serves strong and they race to a 30-0 lead but a crisp smash by Hlavackova gives them a point.
But the World No 1 is at her crushing best and a Safarova stunner at the net gives them them the game and a 2-1 lead in the deciding set.

Hlavackova stretches a swift forehand to take the first point in the second set but follows it with an unforced error to level it at 15-14.
A gritty rally follows and Safarova blinks first hitting at the net. Hlavackova/Peng put up a more coordinated show and take a 40-15 lead and a precarious volley by Hlavackova helps them hold 1-1 in the third set.

Mattek-Sands/Safarova start the opening game of the deciding set with two staright points but a double fault from Safarova gives Hlavackova/Peng a toe in and they push to make it 30-30.
Mattek-Sands strikes at the net with a well-placed volley and the second seeds grab the lead 1-0 in the third set.

Never count #TeamBucie out!

Safarova/Mattek-Sands take second set 6-3 over Hlavackova/Peng. #ausopen pic.twitter.com/P8YT1kR0Rj

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

Mattek-Sands/Safarova grab Set 2 

Mattek-Sands takes charge at the net a few deft touches see them race to a 40-0 lead and grab 3 set points. 
The World No 1 misses a chance but the takes the next to capture the second set 6-3.
The topsy-turvy women’s doubles final goes to Set 3

Mattek-Sands serves to take this match to the third set and starts with a smashing ace. 
The competition gets some teeth as the game goes to 30-30 as Hlavackova/Peng get a breakpoint, but the second seeds pull it to deuce. 
Hlavackova/Peng show some of their reslove from their first set win as they break and stay alive in the second as they push it 3-5.

#Hlavackova takes a hit #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/pmOXlAS3pH

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

Hlavackova’s serve is faltering again, as Mattek-Sands/Safarova get 3 breakpoints again.
The Czech responds with a crisp ace, as Peng smashes her way to make it 30-40. 
But Hlavackova gets broken for the third time as the second seeds lead the set 5-2 and will serve for the set.

Mattek-Sands/Safarova race away to win the game on the back of some strong serving from Safarova. Lead the second set 4-2.
A third set looks imminent here

Much better showing from Hlavackova/Peng as they take their second game in the second set and hold serve for the first time in this set. 
3-2 now with Mattek-Sands/Safarova serving.

Did You Know

Each of the 4 players, Hlavackova, Peng, Mattek-Sands, Safarova, have now dropped their serve in the women’s doubles final.

Mattek-Sands/Safarova serve for a 4-0 lead. Unsurprisingly, the second seeds have won twice as many points as their opposition in the second set.
The contest seems much more even in the fourth game but one can see Hlavackova’s frustration is spilling over, as he hits a wayward shot. 
But Hlavackova/Peng manage to get their foot in, as they break and take the first game in the second set to make it 3-1. The 12th seeds must be relieved.

There is a heated discussion between Hlavackova and the chair umpire going on, possibly about the giant screen that has been troubling her serve.
Hlavackova seems frustrated and it looks like it is affecting her game.

Mattek-Sands/Safarova have the momentum well and truly now, as they get 3 more breakpoints in the third game.
Hlavackova has stuttered on serve and the second seeds have taken full advantage of it.
They lead the third set 3-0 now.

Meanwhile, here’s Hlavackova and Peng celebrating their set win. How good do their coordinated kits look?

That 1st set winning feeling #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/9FuSZNOO8a

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

Mattek-Sands/Safarova show their dominance in the second game as well, as we we see a fast-paced rally and more great hitting.
Peng and safarova engage in high-quality sparring at the net, which gives Hlavackova/Peng a breakpoint but the second seeds force a deuce.
But a gritty show sees Mattek-Sands/Safarova hold their serve and lead the second set 2-0.

Good stuff so far in the women's doubles final, with Hlavackova & Peng edging past Mattek-Sands & Safarova: 7-6(4). #AusOpen

— Ana Mitrić (@ana_mitric) January 27, 2017

Mattek-Sands/Safarova have 3 breakpoints to start the second set, but Hlavackova/Peng neutralise the attack with a deft netpoint and take the game to deuce. 
A powerful smash gives the second seed another breakpoint and this time they don’t cave in, as they take the first game.

👯🏆: #Peng/#Hlavackova take the 1st set 7-6(4) over #MattekSands/#Safarova #AusOpen

Follow along on 📻: https://t.co/6CCpd4I14I pic.twitter.com/GQ06ueIbS1

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

Mattek-Sands/Safarova dished out some stunning points in the tiebreak, but it wasn’t enough as the determined  Hlavackova/Peng chipped off the higher ranked seeds’ efforts to claim a gritty opening set win.

The stats show an evenly matches contest with 17 winners from both sides, but a tad lower number of unforced errors from 12 th seeds and a better court coverage ensures that they have their nose forward in the women’s doubles final.

Hlavackova/Peng take first set in tiebreak

After a keenly contested opening set, the 12th seeds nose ahead and capture the tiebreak 7-6(4) over Mattek-Sands/Safarova.

Hlavackova/Peng pull back the momentum in the tiebreak to take a 4-2 lead thanks to some unforced errors from the second seeds.

Hlavackova/Peng serving to stay in the openeing set again. They grab the first point but a stunning lob by Safarova evens things out. An unforced error gives the serevs the lead and they consolidate it with a crushing smash. They have the gamepoints now and push for the tiebreak in the first set. Peng falters at the net briefly but they pull back to make it 6-6 and force a tiebreak.

Hlavackova misses a smash to give Mattek-Sands/Safarova the first point in the crucial game, but a wayward shot evens it out at 15-15. Hlavackova finds the net again and misjudges a Mattek-Sands serve to give the second seeds a 6-5 lead in the first set.

Hlavackova-Peng serving to stay in the set start with a missed return from Safarova. The higher ranked seeds grab a 30-0 lead, before hitting one out. Peng, on serve, looks more confident to level 30-30  and fires an ace to go 40-30 up. A long retun prompts Hlavackova/Peng to challenge but the ball just makes it to take the game to deuce. 
An unforced error gives the servers the advantage and a strong backhand and a smash later, they hold their nerve to take the first set to  5-5.

Ouch! #Peng takes a body shot from #Safarova #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/ZbBj7khLwM

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

Mattek-Sands/Safarova getting into the groove now after early hiccups.
Safarova’s serve induces several errors as they race away to a 40-0 lead, before they hit one outside.
But another unforeced error gives them the game and they lead the first set 5-4, nosing ahead for the first time in the match.

Hlavackova serves while Peng, on the net, gives away a free point to start. Safarova hits a sharp body shot to take another point and then comes the first double fault of the match to give the second seeds 3 breakpoints.
The Hlavackova serve gets broken for the first time and she is not too happy, poiting to the giant screen.
First set tied at 4-4 now.

Safarova plays a fierce game at the net to force Hlavackova into an error. 
Mattek-Sands then engages in a stunning rally with Hlavackova at the back, but a Peng smash gives them the point. Another rally and another cheeky smash gives the 12th seeds an edge, but Safarova pulls right back to take it to 40-30 and then take the game. The first set stands at 4-3.

Peng, with another big serve, unsettles the second seeds early in the game.
Safarova challenges a call, but it’s well in as they race to a 40-0 lead.
 An unforced error makes it 40-15, but another sharp serve gives them a 4-2 lead in the opening set.

🇨🇿🇨🇳 have the early break in the 1st set of the women's doubles final. They lead 🇺🇸🇨🇿 3-2#AusOpen #7TENNIS

— 7SportAU (@7SportStandby) January 27, 2017

Mattek-Sands/Safarova bounce right back with a sharp service game that gives them 3 early points. Hlavackova-Peng let down their intensity for a brief moment and a Safarova ace gives them the game. 3-2 in the first set.

A clever flick by Peng gives them the first point on serve, followed by a misjudged shot apiece from Mattek-Sands and Safarova to give the 12th seeds a 40-0 lead. They grab another point soon as they race away to a 3-1 lead.

Much better showing from Mattek-Sands/Safarova in this game as they get the first point. But Hlavackova-Peng pull back 2 more, before the game is leveled at 30-30. An unforced error from Peng gives away the lead and a sharp call by Mattek-Sands/Safarova on a Hlavackova slice gives them the game as they hold serve. The first set stands at 2-1.

👯: 1st mtg

[12]Peng🇨🇳/Hlavackova🇨🇿 in Grand Slam team debut

[2]Mattek-Sands🇺🇸/Safarova🇨🇿 = 3x Grand Slam champs (inc '15 here) #AusOpen

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

Peng, with her cracking forehand, helps consolidate the lead, as Hlavackova-Peng hold serve for 2-0 in the first set.

Hlavackova-Peng draw first blood with a break, and lead the first set 1-0.

Hlavackova-Peng upset top seeds Garcia-Mladenovic in the semis and will be the underdogs here against world No 1 Mattek-Sands and her partner Safarova, who are the second seeds here

Here come the finalists 

The women’s doubles final #Hlavackova / #Peng vs #MattekSands / #Safarova is about to start on Rod Laver Arena #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/2jSyVyjqyu

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

The doubles final between No.2 seeds Mattek-Sands/Safarova and No.12 seeds Hlavackova/Peng is about to get underway. #AusOpen

— WTA Insider (@WTA_insider) January 27, 2017

Next up, is the women’s doubles final between 12th seeds Andrea Hlavackova and Shuai Peng and Bethanie Mattek-Sands and Lucie Safarova, the second seeds.

Here’s the on-court interview from Sania Mirza and Ivan Dodig after their win!

.@MirzaSania and @DodigTennis are through to the mixed doubles final #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/KQbgRf7MUQ

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

Good game, mates 🤝 #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/Hss8uELREG

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

Sania Mirza and Ivan Dodig win

The second seeds beat Samantha Stosur/Sam Groth 6-4, 2-6, 10-5 to enter the mixed doubles final!

Sania with a brilliant rally of forehands and then does the damage with a smash that splits both the Sam’s. MATCH POINTS!

An ace from Dodig and it’s 7-3. Another huge serve from the Croatian down the tee and Groth returns it long. It’s 8-3. Sania and Dodig are two points away from the final .

In the match tie-break, Sania serves well to make it 4-3. Two more excllent points from the second seeds and they take a 6-3 lead over Sam & Sam. Groth dropped both the points on his own serve.

One-set all

Sania Mirza and Ivan Dodig lose the 2nd ste 2-6 to Sam Stosur and Sam Groth in 31 minutes.

Sania Mirza/Ivan Dodig 2-6 Samantha Stosur/Sam Groth

Sania did well to recover from 0-40 down on her serve to make it deuce. but then she double faulted to hand the second set 6-2 to Sam and Sam. The match will be decided by a super tie-break – first team to 10 points win the match.

Sania Mirza/Ivan Dodig 2-5 Samantha Stosur/Sam Groth​

Big hold from Sam Stosur to make sure they stay ahead. Sania hit a couple of huge forehands in that game but Groth took care of them at the net. Sania now serving to stay alive in the 2nd set.

Sania Mirza/Ivan Dodig 2-4 Samantha Stosur/Sam Groth

​Two straight easy holds from Groth and Dodig. (Groth did throw in one more double fault to take the combined DF count in this match to 14.) Sam & Sam two games away from forcing a match tie-breaker. Stosur to serve.

Sania Mirza/Ivan Dodig 1-3 Samantha Stosur/Sam Groth

Uh-oh! The double faultitis is spreading. Sania gets broken for the first time in the match as she double faults at 30-40. All four players have dropped their serve now (I seem to have jinxed Sania. )

In case you had forgotten what’s up later today, it’s Nadal vs Dimitrov in the last singles semi-final at 2:00 PM IST. 

.@RafaelNadal having a hit on the practice court prior to his SF match against Grigor #Dimitrov #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/35yNay80Ss

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2017

Sania Mirza/Ivan Dodig 1-2 Samantha Stosur/Sam Groth 

Good serving from Stosur after being 0-30 down. On game point, she fired a massive slider down the tee and Dodig couldn’t keep his return in. The Aussies edge ahead 2-1. On serve in the second set after they dropped the opener 4-6.

Sania Mirza/Ivan Dodig 1-1 Samantha Stosur/Sam Groth 

Dodig throws in a double fault to make Groth feel better about himself, I suppose. But as easy hold for the Croatian as well. Two holds in the second set and we are ta 1-1. Stosur to serve next.

Sania Mirza/Ivan Dodig 0-1 Samantha Stosur/Sam Groth 

Groth called for the trainer at the end of the first set and seems to be not a 100 percent fit. But he holds comfortbaly to open the second set (it did have one double-fault – his 7th of the match.)

Sania Mirza and Ivan Dodig win opening set 6-4

The Indo-Croat duo are one set away from the Aus Open mixed doubles final!

Sania Mirza/Ivan Dodig 6-4 Samantha Stosur/Sam Groth 

At 30-15, Dodig sends a big serve out wide, that was called out but the chair umpire corrected the call and gave the point to the Indo-Croat pair. Groth gets into an argument with the umpire insisting they should replay the point. She doesn’t budge and it’s set point for Mirza/Dodi. At 40-15, Dodig double faults. and he finally holds on their second set point.

Sania Mirza/Ivan Dodig 5-4 Samantha Stosur/Sam Groth

​Sania and Doig break. Another double fault from Sam Groth at the worst time possible. It was his 6th double fault of the match so far. His ball toss has been all over the place today.

Ivan Dodig will now serve for the opening set at 5-4.

Sania Mirza/Ivan Dodig 4-4 Samantha Stosur/Sam Groth

​Quick hold from Sania to even the opening ste at 4-4. She’s the only one who hasn’t been broken yet of the four players!

Sania Mirza/Ivan Dodig 3-4 Samantha Stosur/Sam Groth

Breaks galore as Sania/Dodig break right back. Stosur went down 0-40 on her serve but won the next two points. On theri 3rd break point, Sania got into a forehand battle with Stosur, then changed direction with a lob cross court. Stosur returned the lob back, Dodig half-vollyed it across the net and the Groth sent a smash return long. Fun point and it’s back on serve!

Break points won so far:

Sania & Dodig – 2/5

Sam & Sam – 2/2

Sania Mirza/Ivan Dodig 2-4 Samantha Stosur/Sam Groth

Oh dear! Dodig broken once again. He double faults at 0-40 and the Aussies break to love. Dodig must be kicking himself for that poor service game.

Sania Mirza/Ivan Dodig 2-3 Samantha Stosur/Sam Groth

​Much better serving from Groth. He double faulted again to start his game and lost the next point as well, which meant he had dropped SIX straight points on serev. But he recovered nicely and finally found the rhythm on his service motion. Sans & Sam hold for 3-2.

Sania Mirza/Ivan Dodig 2-2 Samantha Stosur/Sam Groth

​Sania’s first service game and she holds quite comfortably, thanks to Dodig’s quick hands at the net. Of all the four players on court, her serve would probably be the weakest and the one that the Aussies would want to attack. Very crucial that Sania doesn’t drop serve.

Sania Mirza/Ivan Dodig 1-2 Samantha Stosur/Sam Groth

Stosur’s big serve down the tee sets up game point for the Aussies. But she sends a return long on the next point and we are at deuce. In mixed doubles, according to the recent rules, the deuce point is the decideing point – whoever wins it, wins the game. Stosur fires another booming unreturnable serve and they hold.

Sania Mirza/Ivan Dodig 1-1 Samantha Stosur/Sam Groth

Sam and Sam break back! (Such a nice sound to their doubles team. They could be the S&S.) Groth’s heavy forehand did the damage early. And then he stepped in to volley on break point.

What a fantastic start for Sania and Dodig! They break to love in the very first game.

Sania and Ivan are seeded 2nd but the two Sam’s have knocked out plenty of heavyweights on their way to the semis. This promises to be an interesting clash.