After having emphatically beaten Federer, the all time best player in the semi-finals, Nadal was coming in to this final against Djokovic with something he didn't have the last two times, confidence and belief. On the other hand, Djokovic's form had regressed as the tournament developed, and he had just won an energy sapping 5 setter vs Murray the match before, hardly great preparation for the gladiator that is Rafa Nadal.
Only a short couple of years ago, Djokovic was the top guy most likely to retire from sunstroke, or lose his fitness, and thats what makes this victory even more monumental than any of those in his oustanding 2011.
In many ways, the match went to plan. Djokovic dictated early, taking his backhand on the rise, hitting deep and not giving Rafa time on his shots. Nadal too played to script, producing at times Herculean defense and hit his trademark forehand down the line with great success. Djokovics' victories in London and New York were quicker surfaces, favouring his attacking game, but the slow plexicushion neutralised some of Novaks pace and the match was always going to be tighter than the previous ones. But then came the surprise!
Who expected at 5-5 in the fifth that it would be Rafa who wavered, while Djokovic held firm. At 5-5 break point Djokovic stuck in the rally, and it was ultimately Rafa who netted a slice backhand allowing Djokovic to serve out the match and the tournament.
Whilst he certainly didn't hit the heights of this time last year, the 2012 Australian Open perhaps says more about Novak Djokovic than any other tournament. When he was tired, beat up, and not playing his best, he still found his best when it mattered most, and once again was the last man standing!
For Nadal, credit where it's due, not many expected him to reach the final based on form and fitness, and he surprised us once again. He can take away another victory over Federer, and knows that the gap is getting closer, a reassurance that will make him extra motivated to get Djokovic back when the clay is back under his feet.
Federer was looking good, but once again couldn't answer the Nadal question. Whilst one is tempted to say he may never find that particular answer, his first set tactics in that match can be taken forward, and next time if a shot or two goes his way, he'll be the finalist in Paris, London, or NYC.
As for Murray, he was the nearly man once again, but he's getting closer. Taking the mighty Djokovic to five is another step closer to the win, and a bit more time under the guidance of Mr Lendl should by big dividends by the early summer, and i'll go out on a limb and say he reaches the final of one of the later two majors.
My post doesn't mention anyone outside of the big four. The tournament saw inspired runs by the local lads Tomic and Hewitt, a resurgance by Del Potro, and the continued over-achievement of Ferrer. But once again there was no denying the big four, and no denying Novak Djokovic, and it sure doesn't look like stopping.
Best point of the match, just to refresh the old memory :)
DJT
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