Betting tips / Andy Morris / 26 January 2012 / Leave a comment Bet Now View Market

If you watch the match between Federer and Nadal tonight, Andy Morris has little doubt you will see two players still desperate to take the challenge up to each other and the devastatingly powerful tennis force that is Novak Djokovic.

Much of the talk in Melbourne might be about Novak Djokovic, tipped to go on and be a dominant force for years to come.

But don't bring that up in conversation with Roger Federer or Rafael Nadal.

This men's singles semi-final clash is one that would have sold out Rod Laver Arena at least twice over.

Federer's record is amazing. Compared to his total ownership of slams in Wimbledon and the US, his record at the Australian venue has not been so good.

He's only managed to win four titles here...yes, just the four!

The last time he failed to reach the last four in Melbourne was nine years ago, and he made back-to-back finals in 2009 and 2010.

Though he's only the third seed, he's been several levels above all his opponents so far, including the very talented Juan Martin Del Potro who he beat in straight sets in the quarters.

The Swiss master has reached 31 consecutive Grand Slam quarter-finals. People forget that he's only 30 years old, yet he's now played 1,000 tour level matches.

Federer did not add to his trophy collection in any of the slams last year, which makes him extra keen to taste champagne here.

Nadal's ranked one place higher than him, but he was pushed a little too hard for comfort before beating Tomas Berdych in the quarters in four sets.

It's a very even contest, but perhaps the smart money is on Federer.