Roger Federer puts up a masterclass to defeat Andy Murray and reach 10th Wimbledon final
Roger Federer rolled back the years as he put on a vintage display in the 2015 Wimbledon semifinals, defeating Andy Murray 7-5, 7-5, 6-4.
The performance was a continuation of the World No. 2’s terrific form throughout the tournament. He has dropped serve just once in his six matches so far, and has only lost one set. Federer was particularly dominant on his serve today, facing just one break point – and that too in the very first game of the match.
It was a spectacular first set from both players, as neither seemed willing to give the other an inch off the baseline. Murray started out confidently, ripping a few backhands to get to break point in Federer’s first service game, but the Swiss produced big first serves just when he needed them, ultimately holding.
Things went with serve until 6-5 in Federer’s favour. The Swiss signaled his intentions immediately, attacking the Murray serve to set up two set points. He converted the first to pocket the set 7-5 – possibly the best set of tennis he’s played all year. He put in 85% of his first serves, hit 23 winners and just three unforced errors in that first frame.
The second set was more of the same, with Federer holding comfortably and Murray having to fight off a bunch of break points. Things reached a crescendo in the 10th game, with Murray serving to stay in the set at 4-5. Federer set up three set points by going up 0-40, but Murray saved them all. That wasn’t the end of it though, as the Scot went down a further two set points, which he also saved.
Murray ultimately held after nearly 15 minutes of electrifying, nerve-racking tennis, and it seemed he had turned a corner. But Federer would have none of it.
The Swiss put in another confident hold to go up 6-5, and set up yet another set point in Murray’s next service game. This time he made no mistake, putting away a volley for a two sets to love lead.
The third set was a bit of a formality, with a visibly tiring Murray struggling to keep up with his high-flying opponent. He ultimately capitulated at 4-5, hitting a forehand wide to give the match to the Swiss.
Federer has now won all 10 of his Wimbledon semifinals, and will meet Novak Djokovic in the final on Sunday in a repeat of the 2014 Championship match.