Most people figured Novak Djokovic was the man to beat heading into the Australian Open.  While Djokovic struggled some during the summer, especially with losses at Wimbledon to Federer in the semis, and to Murray and del Potro in the semis and bronze medal round at the Olympics.  But, he regained his form heading into the North American swing, and despite not claiming the US Open, he was still the dominant player for the rest of the year, culminating in a second year-end championship.

Few fans expected David Ferrer to bother Djokovic much.  The two played in an exhibition in Abu Dhabi where Ferrer was crushed by Djokovic.  Had Almagro played smarter tennis, he surely would have taken off more games from Djokovic, given his superior firepower.  David Ferrer applies relentless pressure, but it’s at a level that doesn’t quite bother any of the top players.  He lacks a big serve.  He can’t put either his forehand or backhand away at will.  He relies on moving the ball around, and waiting for opportunities.  While few players can overpower him, he can be overpowered.  Without a huge shot, he is forever struggling against the better players and only has chances if something happens, thus, a Nadal injury, or a terribly windy US Open semifinal has helped Ferrer stay competitive.

Djokovic was in an imperious mood with Ferrer unable to do much.  If Ferrer takes more chances, he misses more often, and he can hardly afford to do that.

Final score: 62 62 61.

Tonight, the match everyone has been anticipating: Federer takes on Murray in the other men’s semi.