Federer hopes Edberg effect can end losing streak against Nadal
OLD ADVERSARIES Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal prepare to do battle in this morning’s Australian Open semi-final, and the Swiss star has revealed plans to end his grand slam hoodoo against the world No1 have been afoot since appointing Stefan Edberg as coach last month.
Federer has failed to beat Nadal at a grand slam since their epic 2007 Wimbeldon final and lost four times to the Spaniard last year.
But Federer hopes Edberg’s wisdom can tip the balance when they renew hostilities at 8.30am British time at the Rod Laver Arena.
“I’m looking forward to speaking to Stefan,” said Federer, appearing in his 10th consecutive Australian Open semi-final.
“When he came to Dubai [in December] and we spoke about the game, we spoke about playing Rafa as well.
“He thought he had some good ideas, so I’m looking forward to what he has to say.”
This morning’s winner will take on No8 seed Stanislas Wawrinka in Sunday’s final, following his 6-3, 6-7, 7-6, 7-6 triumph over Tomas Berdych yesterday.
In tomorrow’s women’s singles final last year’s runner-up Li Na will play No20 seed Dominika Cibulkova.
Li made light work of 19-year-old Eugenie Bouchard yesterday, winning 6-2, 6-4, while Cibulkova stormed through to her first major final with a 6-1, 6-2 victory over No5 seed Agnieszka Radwanska.