Nadal outlasts Federer in semi

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Sarah Ivey / the associated press An ecstatic Rafael Nadal celebrates his semifinal win on Thursday. (CP)

MELBOURNE, Australia -- One round earlier than they usually meet in a Grand Slam, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer still treated it like a final.

Nadal outlasted Federer 6-7 (5), 6-2, 7-6 (5), 6-4 in an Australian Open semifinal Thursday night between longtime rivals who had met in eight major finals. It was the first time they'd played in the semis of a Grand Slam since 2005.

Two weeks ago, Nadal injured his right knee and wasn't sure he'd be able to start the tournament. Now, he can barely believe he's in the final.

"If you tell me that two Sundays ago, I really cannot imagine," Nadal said. "For me, it's a dream to be back in a final of the Australian Open."

Nadal will have the opportunity to capture an 11th major title on Sunday night when he plays the winner of today's semifinal between defending champion Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray.

In doubles play, Toronto's Daniel Nestor and Belarusian partner Max Mirnyi lost their semifinal 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 to India's Leander Paes and Radek Stepanek of the Czech Republic.

Nadal, who holds a 6-2 edge in Grand Slam finals against Federer, made the key service break in the ninth game of the fourth set, making an incredible cross-court forehand winner from well behind the baseline, then watching as Federer hit a backhand wide to give Nadal a 5-4 lead.

After serving for the match Nadal smashed a ball up high in the stadium, almost clearing the roof. He then applauded along with the crowd when Federer walked off.

The 25-year-old Spaniard won the 2009 Australian title but lost in the quarter-finals in his next two trips to Melbourne Park. Federer hasn't added to his record 16 Grand Slam titles since he won the 2010 Australian Open.

"I thought Rafa played well from start to finish," Federer said. "It was a tough match physically as well. I'm disappointed, but it's only the beginning of the season. I'm feeling all right, so it's OK."

-- The Associated Press

Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition January 27, 2012 C6