New York, Sept 12:
Roger Federer reached his first US Open final in six years, where will face world number one Novak Djokovic in the 42nd round of their heavyweight rivalry.
Five-time champion Federer, 34, bidding to become the oldest New York champion since 1970, swept past Swiss compatriot Stan Wawrinka 6-4, 6-3, 6-1
Djokovic, the 2011 champion, booked a place in the final for the sixth time with a record 6-0, 6-1, 6-2 rout of defending champion Marin Cilic in the most one-sided US Open semi-final of the modern era.
Tomorrow’s clash will be a rematch of July’s Wimbledon final, where Djokovic triumphed to claim his ninth career Grand Slam crown.
Federer, the holder of 17 majors but without a Grand Slam title since Wimbledon in 2012, will take a 21-20 career edge over Djokovic into the championship match, having won their last duel in Cincinnati in August.
The Swiss legend was imperious against Wawrinka and his victory means he has not dropped a set since the Wimbledon final, a perfect stretch of 28 sets, as he reached a seventh US Open final.
“I’m very happy. It’s been a great tournament so far, I have tried very hard in the last six years to get back to the final and tonight it worked,” Federer said after his 92-minute win sealed by a 10th ace.
“I am playing at a good level, possibly my best. I am serving very well, going for my shots.
“I’d love for it to keep working for one more match.”
Federer is the oldest finalist in a Slam since 35-year-old Andre Agassi at the 2005 US Open, which the Swiss star won.
On Sunday, he will face Djokovic for the sixth time this year — all have been in finals.
“Novak has had a tremendous year. There’s a lot on the line. He could win his third Slam of the year while I can win my first for some time.
“He’s the best mover on hard courts. He will be tough to beat but I am ready for the challenge,” said Federer, the champion from 2004-2008 and runner-up to Juan Martin del Potro in 2009. (Agencies)
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