Rafael Nadal wins an epic against a fantastic Grigor Dimitrov in the Australian Open semi-final to give an immense gift to the tennis community: a final against Roger Federer.

Rafa reaches this milestone after winning a 5 hours’ thriller against Grigor Dimitrov that, after shrugging off the emotions of the occasion, played a truly remarkable tennis to stumble only at the last hurdle. In fact, the Bulgarian failed to convert two consecutive break points when he was leading 4-3 in the decider (chapeau to Nadal in that occasion) to then surrender his serve soon after. Eventually, the Spaniard won the epic 6-3 5-7 7-6 (6) 6-7 (4) 6-4.

Rafa impressed with all his runs to the net, while Grigor showed off an excellent mental toughness that will be extremely useful for the rest of his career.

I am happy for Roger and me. NADAL

Soon after the match Rafa didn’t hide his feelings to comment

“I feel the love of the people here. They give me a lot of positive energy. Very emotional match, I played great, he played great. Means a lot to me, feel the love of the people.

The crowd was just amazing. Many many thanks for the huge support. Both weeks have been unforgettable for me.

(It’s) amazing for me to be through to the final of a Grand Slam again in Australia. I’m very happy for me, and very happy for him (Federer) because we are going to be in a very nice moment.”

Federer – Nadal Final

Rafa leads Roger 23-11. During the “nice old times” the Spaniard would have been the favorite, but probably this time we go for Federer. In fact, the Swiss will rely on a very fast court, Rafa may struggle to recover (not like eight years ago after he beat Verdasco in 5 hours and 50 minutes), and Roger looks sharper overall.

We can never miss this final!