Australian Open Classic Matches

Those epic clashes kept fans on the edge of their seats throughout the game. Those moments are proving difficult for fans to forget. Let’s revisit those classic matches.

SNovak Djokovic VS Rafael Nadal ( 2012 final)

The 2012 Australian Open final between Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal is an iconic match that instantly springs to mind when discussing the tournament’s most unforgettable classics. This encounter is widely regarded as the greatest Grand Slam final in history, and its significance can be attributed to several factors. As the defending champion, Djokovic was surprisingly considered the underdog, given Nadal’s vast experience and impressive credentials. The match commenced with Nadal winning the first set 7-5, thereby raising hopes among his fans for a second title since 2009.

However, Djokovic quickly regained his composure, winning two consecutive sets and subjecting Nadal to immense pressure. Undaunted, Nadal managed to level the match, forcing a deciding set as the captivated crowd remained seated. Ultimately, it was Djokovic who emerged victorious, taking the final set 7-5. The match’s duration of 5 hours and 53 minutes set a new record for the longest Grand Slam final, highlighting the remarkable endurance and skill displayed by both players. Moreover, this epic encounter marked the beginning of Djokovic’s rise to dominance, as he began to challenge the long-standing duopoly of Nadal and Roger Federer. Furthermore, Djokovic’s impressive performance paved the way for his record-breaking ten event titles, a feat that will be incredibly challenging to surpass.

Novak Djokovic VS Andy Murray ( 2012 semi-final)

The stage was set for a thrilling Australian Open semi-final clash between Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray in 2012. The match did not disappoint, as fans were treated to an exciting display of tennis throughout. Murray entered the match seeking revenge for his straight-set loss to Djokovic in the 2011 final. He also aimed to secure a third consecutive final appearance in Melbourne. Djokovic, the defending champion, sought to advance to the final.

He made his intentions clear early, winning the first set. Murray responded strongly, taking the next two sets and putting pressure on the reigning champion. However, Djokovic upped his game, winning the final two sets to secure a hard-fought 6-3, 3-6, 6-7, 6-1, 7-5 victory. The match lasted four hours and 50 minutes, highlighting the tenacity and dedication of both players. Later that year, Murray finally avenged his loss to Djokovic, defeating him in the US Open and claiming his first Grand Slam title. Notably, Murray holds the unfortunate record of being the first player to lose five finals in the event.

Serena Williams vs Maria Sharapova ( 2005 Semi-final)

Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams clashed in an epic Australian Open semi-finals match, drawing immense attention due to their burgeoning rivalry. At 17, Sharapova had already notched up two consecutive victories against Williams. Firstly, Sharapova dominated Williams in straight sets to win the 2004 Wimbledon Open, announcing her arrival in the tennis world. She secured a second victory in the Tour Championship later that year.

Williams entered the match determined to counter Sharapova and halt her growing dominance. Sharapova convincingly took the first set 2-6, and the second set followed a similar pattern, with Williams struggling to find answers. Sharapova even had a chance to close the match at 5-4, but Williams remained composed and bounced back to win the second set 7-5. The decider was intense, with Sharapova in control, but Williams showcased her class to close the match 2-6, 7-5, 8-6. Williams went on to win 18 consecutive matches against Sharapova.

Roger Federer vs Rafael Nadal( 2009 Final)

The late 2000s witnessed a period of dominance by Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer in the world of tennis, with their rivalry having a profound impact on the sport and drawing increased attention from fans globally. The 2009 Australian Open was poised to revive their rivalry, as Federer prepared to compete in his ninth major hard-court final, boasting an unblemished record. Conversely, Nadal was making his debut in a hard-court final. Despite his victory over Federer in the 2008 Wimbledon Open final, Nadal was still considered the underdog.

The global tennis community eagerly awaited one of the most epic matches in the sport’s history. Nadal won the first set 7-5, but Federer responded by taking the second set 6-3. The third set was extremely intense, with Nadal emerging victorious 7-6 in a tiebreaker. Federer equalized the scoreline with a 6-3 performance in the fourth set. However, the deciding set was a one-sided affair, as Nadal produced exceptional shots to win convincingly 6-2. This marked his first of two titles in Melbourne, and he made history by becoming the first Spanish player, male or female, to win the event.