MELBOURNE, Australia — First Rafael Nadal, now Roger Federer.
Federer, the 16-time Grand Slam winner, was knocked out of the Australian Open 7-6 (3), 7-5, 6-4 Thursday by 2008 champion Novak Djokovic.
Nadal was aiming for his fourth straight Grand Slam win and Federer was going for his fifth Australian title. Instead, Nadal was eliminated by fellow Spaniard David Ferrer and Federer is heading home.
Djokovic will face Andy Murray or Ferrer in the final – they play on Friday.
“I’m looking forward to watching that match tomorrow from my bed with some popcorn,” Djokovic said. “David played a fantastic match against Rafa even though Rafa was struggling obviously with injuries.
“They are in top shape. Andy has been in top shape on this court. It’s a Grand Slam final, anything can happen. I believe in myself.”