Djokokic and Tsonga reach final

 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 12:03

The top-seeded Djokovic beat number three Tomas Berdych of the Czech Republic, 7-5 6-1 to set up a re-match of January’s Australian Open final against Tsonga, who hours earlier had beaten fourth seed and fellow Frenchman Gael Monfils 6-0 6-3.

“It will be great to meet Jo once again,” said Djokovic, who won his first Grand Slam title in Melbourne. “It will be very interesting to play him.”

He added: “It’s the second time we play and again it’s in a final. Anything can happen, I don’t see myself as the favourite. Jo has been playing fantastic tennis this week and is very motivated.”

Neither player had much of a problem in Saturday’s semi-final play.

The third-ranked Djokovic fired six aces while winning all three break points to oust Berdych in 1 hour, 21 minutes.

“I used my opportunities,” said the Serb, who has 10 career titles. “I had the feeling that I was sleeping through the first set and only woke up in the second.”

Tsonga, who has not won a title, was even more impressive in eliminating compatriot Monfils in their first ATP main-draw meeting.

The world number 20 controlled the match from the beginning, winning three-quarters of his service points while converting four of his six break-point opportunities.

“I played unbelievably,” said Tsonga, who missed the French Open and Wimbledon after having knee surgery. I hit the ball very well, but I wasn’t moving too well. I have to move better in the final. I’m very happy to be in the final. I didn’t expect this result in this tournament for me.”

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