A preview of the 2nd semifinal of the ATP Masters London: An all Swiss affair

Federer will play Wawrinka for the 21st time

As the first semifinal at London comes to an end with defending champion and world no.1 Novak Djokovic ripping past arch-rival Rafael Nadal, the O2 arena now gears up for an all Swiss affair where six-time champion Roger Federer will play reigning Roland Garros champion Stan Wawrinka.

Roger Federer will enter the contest as the all time favourite. The 17-time grand slam champion, who has been unbeaten at London will be looking forward to his 21st meeting against Stan Wawrinka.

Federer, who comfortably leads the head to head 17-3 definitely has the upper hand against his compatriot. Also, Federer will have a lot of confidence as he is the only player to have really challenged the otherwise unbeatable Novak Djokovic and beaten him convincingly in two matches this year, one at Cincinnati and one at London.

Against Wawrinka, Federer’s game plan would be to start aggressively and not allow Wawrinka to settle. Federer will also have to counter Wawrinka’s strong backhand, but, if Federer manages to put some early pressure on Wawrinka, his job would be half done.

Wawrinka will rely on his backhand against Federer

Over the last three years, Stan Wawrinka has become an accomplished player. The Swiss no.2, who won his first Grand Slam at the Australian open in 2014 showed that he indeed has the ability to challenge the top players. He is the only player to beat Djokovic at a grand slam this year (Roland Garros final).

Wawrinka also showed good form as he brushed aside Andy Murray in straight sets. Though Wawrinka trails 3-17 in the head to head against Roger Federer, he will be looking to fight it out and make the most of his fantastic shotmaking, especially his backhand. Given the fact that Wawrinka will have to battle past the legend of the sport, the key factor for him would be to lessen his unforced errors and not get swayed away by pressure.

Federer beat Wawrinka in a thriller at London last year.

Their last match at London was in 2014 at the same stage: semifinals. The match was a complete thriller as both players put in all they could. Federer saved four match points against Wawrinka and finally, after a lot of perseverance, won the match 4-6,7-5,7-6(6). Though there were some controversies about the match, both players showed amazing competitive spirit. Later on that year, both players played their part which resulted in Switzerland winning the Davis cup.

The second semifinal will prove to be another amazing match between two quality tennis players, a calm and composed Roger Federer on one side and a ferocious Stan Wawrinka on the other side. And also be prepared to see an eye pleasing display of great single handed backhands from both men, they are a part of only a few remaining players in the ATP world tour to have single handed backhands of such high quality.