Novak Djokovic versus Stan Wawrinka at the Australian Open Part three takes place tomorrow, and unlike many third parts of trilogies, it won’t disappointment.
Djokovic leads their head to head with a commanding 16-3 lead, but that means little after their recent Australian Open encounters which have been two of the best contests in recent years as Wawrinka’s variety and flair go up against Djokovic’s athletic baseline aggression.
In the first installment of this rivalry down under, their 2013 fourth round match, Wawrinka stunned Djokovic to take a two sets to one lead before being beaten 10-12 in the fifth. That match kickstarted Wawrinka’s career at the highest levels of the game and a year later he beat Djokovic 9-7 in the fifth in their quarter-final, on his way to winning his maiden slam.
This year, another tight match looks probable as both players enter the semi-final playing well. Wawrinka was impressive beating Kei Nishikori in straight sets in his quarter final match, and Djokovic was also so in his three set win over Raonic, a performance he claimed was his best so far at this year’s tournament.
With both men in form, and fresh after straightforward runs to the last four, this match could be another one that goes all the way.
The deciding factor in the match will be Wawrinka’s game and how well he can execute his net game against the target loving Serbian. Wawrinka will also have to be mentally tough. Few are better than Djokovic at exploiting an opponent’s bad day, winning when not at their best or turning around matches that look lost. If Wawrinka, who is only recently emerging from a post-first slam slump, has a dip in form, Djokovic will win this in three.
The Australian Open, however, is clearly bringing out the best in Wawrinka, whose single handed backhand and net skills thrive on the time he has at his disposal to set them up on these medium paced hard court. Also, memories of his victory last year, one few predicted, should ensure he puts in a semi-final performance worthy of his status of defending champion.
Djokovic, though, is a four time Australian Open winner, and the plexi-cushion courts in Melbourne are tailor made for his mix of defense and offense, and with his improved serve and more aggressive mindset, factors improved since a year ago, the Serbian is the favorite to take the match.
Prediction: Djokovic to win in five.
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