1215: All that leaves for me is to bid your farewell. Many thanks for all your comments and make sure you check back here tomorrow morning for Andy Murray's semi-final against David Ferrer. Could the British number one be about to break his Grand Slam duck? All to be revealed. For now, though, let's doff our caps to Novak Djokovic after he beat arguably the greatest player in history to book his place in Sunday's championship match. A Grand Slam final without Rafael Nadal or Roger Federer - what were the odds on that at the beginning of last week?! Cheerio.
1210: A quick reminder that there was some good news for British tennis earlier today when George Morgan - a hitting partner for Roger Federer and Andy Murray last week -
reached the semi-finals of the boys' singles
with victory over Jeson Patrombon. Talking of British tennis, fancy quizzing Britain's Fed Cup team ahead of their Europe/Africa Zone I week at the end of January? GB have been drawn in the round-robin along with Switzerland and a Caroline Wozniacki-led Denmark. Post your questions for Elena Baltacha, Anne Kethoavong, Heather Watson and Jocelyn Rae
on the British Tennis Facebook page.
1205: With the opening semi-final done and dusted, we now turn our attention to
Andy Murray v David Ferrer for the right to meet
Novak Djokovic in Sunday's showpiece. That match is LIVE on
BBC Two and the
HD Channel at
0830 GMT tomorrow (Friday). Andrew Cotter and John Lloyd will be your commentators, with Sue Barker and Tim Henman in the studio. The match is also available on the
Red Button, right here
online and via
BBC Radio 5 live sports extra.
snowmandyj on 606:
"Hate to see Fed lose, but Novak was rock solid - have a bet on AM to win tournament, got great odds because placed a couple of weeks ago, I did think yesterday I might have made a good call, but have to say Djokovic looks fantastic. Whatever the result, really hope that (barring mishaps) we finally get a Novak v Andy final - and that it doesn't disappoint."
Amardeep on 606:
"Djokovic was outstanding, in this form its his title. The big thing is he's got his huge serve back from two years ago - I would go as far as saying he will hold the world number one ranking at some stage this year and may be the one to knock Nadal out of his French Open throne. For Federer, his first serve percentage was awful like it was last year in his losses to Soderling, Berdych and Djokovic in the Slams. Paul Annacone will need to work on this side of the game. It was a typical Federer performance from last year's Slams - he was too scared to go for his shots, he didn't run around his backhands enough and worst of all was the lack of net shots he played. He was losing about 60-70% of the baseline rallies but was too stubborn to change his play. Hopefully Murray gets through so we get a five-set thriller final."
Anon via text on 81111: "For the first time since before he won Wimbledon for the first time in 2003, Federer does not hold a single slam. It'll be tough to recover from this. "
irregulartweet on Twitter:
"When was the last time Federer made 44 unforced errors?? I didn't think that was possible! #BBCAussieOpen"
1155: And here's what
Djokovic had to say on tomorrow's second semi-final between Andy Murray and David Ferrer: "I'm looking forward to watching that match from my bed with some popcorn. No, they're both great players and in top shape. David played a great match against Rafa even though Rafa was injury, and Andy is playing really well on this court. It's a Grand Slam final, anything can happen, I've just got to focus on myself."
1150: "It's hard to say [how I was feeling in the last game], you don't know if you're feeling excited to be serving for a place in the final or extreme pressure, I guess a little bit of both," says
Djokovic in his post-match interview with Jim Courier. "Roger puts you under a lot of pressure. It's one of the best matches I've played in a while. I had to take my chances. In the second set I was a break up but in 20 minutes I was 5-2 down. If I lost that set god knows where it would have gone. But I played some of my best tennis to win on this great arena."
Federer 6-7 (3-7) 5-7 4-6 DjokovicA nervy service game but Djokovic will care not a jot. The 2008 champion's fifth ace of the match takes him to 40-15 and
two match points. One anxious forehand into the net is followed by a second that sails long - we're at deuce and Federer lives on. But down comes ace number six, a cracker out wide, and when Federer nets his return - a 44th unforced error - it's game over.
Novak Djokovic reaches the Australian Open final, defending champion Roger Federer is out.
* denotes next server Federer 6-7 (3-7) 5-7 4-5 Djokovic*That just about sums up Federer's day. A wayward backhand up the line gifts Djokovic
three break points and although the first two are saved, the third is converted when Federer nets an straightforward backhand. "He hasn't hit enough winners," says John Lloyd on the
BBC Red Button. "The ball just keeps coming back." Djokovic
breaks and will now serve for the match.
* denotes next server *Federer 6-7 (3-7) 5-7 4-4 DjokovicFederer works the angles brilliantly to get Djokovic running side-to-side and the Serb nets a backhand return to bring up
break-back point. It's saved with a timely ace and Federer then lifts a defensive forehand beyond the baseline. When Djokovic responds in kind we're back to deuce and chants of "Nole! Nole!" reverberate around Rod Laver Arena. Plenty of tension but an unbelievable atmosphere. Djokovic finds the net again to give Roger a
second break-back point and this time he takes it, racing in to dispatch a forehand put-away at the end of a thrilling point. "Alleeeeeeeezzzzz!!!"" from the Swiss and the stadium erupts with noise. Federer gets the
break back.
* denotes next server
The_True_Eagle on 606:
"Not taking anything away from Djokovic, but Federer gave up after Djokovic broke back in the second set. You can't help but feel this could be Murray's year, assuming all goes to plan tomorrow..."
Becks, London, via text on 81111: "If Djokovic can pull this off it could be great news for Murray..."
Federer 6-7 (3-7) 5-7 3-4 Djokovic*A solid set of deliveries keep Federer's faint hopes alive, but he's cutting a beleaguered figure out there and his fans have gone pretty quiet too. A Grand Slam final without Federer or Nadal is now looking a very likely prospect.
* denotes next server *Federer 6-7 (3-7) 5-7 2-4 DjokovicFlashes of brilliance from Federer but that's not going to be good enough to get him through from this position. The second seed's return game has been particularly lacklustre - by his standards - and Djokovic unleashes another vicious forehand winner to close in on the match.
* denotes next server Federer 6-7 (3-7) 5-7 2-3 Djokovic*Much more like it from the defending champion but still he's massively up against it. Anyone still tipping Federer for the win?
* denotes next server *Federer 6-7 (3-7) 5-7 1-3 DjokovicOnly 23 winners from Federer so far and he's being made to pay. Djokovic comes back from 0-30 with some gritty defensive play and his escape is complete when Federer lashes wide.
* denotes next server Federer 6-7 (3-7) 5-7 1-2 Djokovic*More errors from the Federer blade send Djokovic to 0-30 and, despite getting a point on the board after resorting to the trusty old one-two punch, the Swiss falls to 15-40. Gasps around the arena as Djoko brings up
two break point, both of which are saved as Federer's serve comes to the fore. But then comes a
third break point and Roger nets a backhand for his 35th unforced error of the day. There's the
break and Djokovic is now in pole position to go on and clinch a famous victory. Federer and umpire Enric Molina again exchange words; Roger's definitely not happy with the communication between Djoko and his support team in the stands.
* denotes next server *Federer 6-7 (3-7) 5-7 1-1 DjokovicVery scratchy opening service game from Djokovic but that could just prove a critical hold. Federer's raking groundstrokes dominate from the outset and a
break point is soon forthcoming. Nole saves with an ace and thinks he has a game point when Federer is adjudged to have fired long - but Federer challenges and Hawkeye suggests his shot just about clipped the baseline. Another
two break points come and go for the second seed before Djokovic finds some rhythm - and a few more crashing forehands - to emerge.
* denotes next server
Gordon, Fife, via text on 81111: "'Sneakers'? Surely the correct term is 'trainers' or, as we say in Central Scotland 'guttys'."
Federer 6-7 (3-7) 5-7 1-0 Djokovic*A first-serve percentage of 47% could well have been Federer's downfall in the second set but he's back on track at the start of the third, landing three of his opening deliveries to close out a morale-boosting hold to 15.
* denotes next server *Federer 6-7 (3-7) 5-7 DjokovicNerveless stuff from 2008 champion Djokovic, greeting every point with a fist pump towards his player box and a grisly bear-like roar of delight. Federer lashes into the tramlines to hand Nole three set points at 40-0 and the Serb needs no invitation to whack a forehand winner into the deuce court and wrap up the set. Ana Ivanovic smiling away in the stands. Good job, Novak.
* denotes next server
Stuart, Edin, via text on 81111: "I would love to see a Djokovic/Murray final. When was the last time they played?? I'm calling a Ferrer/Fed final though. Think Ferrer could be another 'Roddick moment' and prove tricky for Andy."
Federer 6-7 (3-7) 5-6 Djokovic*Blimey, Federer capitulates on serve and I make that
three break points. The 16-time Grand Slam champion looks a tad ruffled for the first time in a long time and, after getting back to 30-40, slices a backhand into the net. Djokovic
breaks and he'll now serve for a two-set lead. What a turnaround.
* denotes next server
Algernon, Norfolk, via text on 81111: "I think you'll find Djokovic has changed into plimsoll's not ghastly 'sneakers'. This is the BBC you know."
*Federer 6-7 (3-7) 5-5 DjokovicDjokovic opens his ace account to get us up and running, only for a woeful drop shot to find the net and level things up at 15-15. A resounding overhead makes it 30-15 but Federer is working tirelessly and forces his opposite number to shank a forehand into the trams. Not sure what's going on above Rod Laver but the latest of several extremely large bird feathers has just landed on the court. Not sure that explains Federer framing another backhand. Nole then sprints in for a jaw-dropping backhand pick-up that sneaks over the net and across the face of a stranded Federer to seal the game.
* denotes next server Federer 6-7 (3-7) 5-4 Djokovic*Expert hitting from two supremely gifted men, but it's Djokovic who makes the first move as several hefty forehands help him to 0-30. Federer serves his way back into the game but a majestic forehand winner gives Djokovic
two break-back points. Federer kicks a serve out wide to rescue the first but is punished for a poor drop shot on the second, Nole advancing to flick a forehand up the line and
break back. Federer failing to serve out a set - now that's a rare sight.
* denotes next server *Federer 6-7 (3-7) 5-3 DjokovicDjokovic switches to a fresh pair of sneakers and they seem to do the trick as he reels off an accomplished service hold to remain in the set. Federer, however, will now serve to level the match.
* denotes next server Federer 6-7 (3-7) 5-2 Djokovic*Looks as though an immediate riposte is on the cards as Djoko harries his way to 0-30 and then 30-40. The
break point is squandered when Nole goes long but Federer frames out of the court to gift his opponent a
second break point. Nerves of steel from Federer to save this one, coming in to meet Djoko at the net and coming up with a lob that leaves the Serb swiping at thin air before falling on to his backside. Big hitting from the third seed prevents Federer from seeing out the game but he slips when attempting to chase down a feathered drop shot and here's another game point... more big hitting but Federer hangs in there and gets the rub of the green when Djoko's sliced drop shot from the baseline catches the net.
* denotes next server *Federer 6-7 (3-7) 4-2 DjokovicA Federer forehand clips the baseline for 0-15. Djoko challenges but to no avail. A magnificent approach and volley from the Swiss forces Nole to put a backhand into the net and a breathtaking backhand winner up the line gives Federer
three break points. The first is saved when Federer nets but at the second time of asking the
break arrives, Djoko lashing a routine forehand into the net at the end of an intoxicating rally. Fed fans now in full voice and the second seed's support box are giving it some, too.
* denotes next server Federer 6-7 (3-7) 3-2 Djokovic*Love service hold and Federer jogs back to the chair with a spring in his step. Now that's what I call a momentum shift.
* denotes next server *Federer 6-7 (3-7) 2-2 DjokovicOh dear, Novak. A trio of sloppy errors give Federer
two break-back points. The first is saved with a big serve but Djoko goes long on the second and Federer has the
break back. Nole worked so hard for his breakthrough and he's gone and thrown it all away. "Allez!" shouts Federer, the defending champions back on song.
* denotes next server Federer 6-7 (3-7) 1-2 Djokovic*An ear-splitting yelp of delight and that can only mean one this at this stage.
Djokovic breaks the Federer serve and the 16-time Grand Slam champion looks more than a little disgruntled about something. He exchanges words with umpire Enric Molina at the changeover and appears to glance up at Djoko's support team in the stands. Now then, can Nole consolidate his break?
* denotes next server *Federer 6-7 (3-7) 1-1 Djokovic"It's difficult to fault Djokovic's game when he's playing like this," says John Lloyd on the
BBC Red Button. The world number three from Serbia moves to 40-0 by racing in from the baseline to chase down a Federer drop shot, sliding across the Plexicushion and flicking an angled forehand winner straight across his opponent. That one brings the crowd to their feet and helps him to another confident hold.
* denotes next server Federer 6-7 (3-7) 1-0 Djokovic*A couple Djokovic errors aid Federer's serene progress through the first game of the second set. Nole does everything in his power to return a smash at 40-15 but can only frame it into the net. Current temperatures around the 20 degree mark in Melbourne right now, so pretty comfortable for the players. The weathermen are forecasting a scorcher this weekend, though.
* denotes next server
Blue_Phoenix on 606:
"I'm cheering for the Djoko purely on the basis that if Murray wins against Ferrer tomorrow I reckon Murray will feel less pressure playing against Djoko and will have a better chance of winning his maiden slam. If Fed is to win, lets hope this is a 5hr marathon match!"
*Federer 6-7 (3-7) DjokovicSolid opening points for both men but it's Djokovic who makes the first move with a blistering forehand which Federer can only return into the net. So, Djokovic gets the
mini-break and then moves to
4-1 courtesy of two wayward backhands from Federer. A pinpoint serve down the 'T' keeps world number two Federer in contention but Djokovic cranks up the intensity and his opponent plants a forehand into the tramlines to concede a
second mini-break. Djoko's roaring with delight and his camp are on their feet when a forehand winner takes him to
6-2. Federer pushes hard to get one
mini-break back, only to dump a backhand into the net - his 15th unforced error - and hand Djokovic the set.
* denotes next server Federer 6-6 Djokovic*Masterful shot-making from Federer, a forehand put-away wrapping up the love hold and taking us into a tie-break.
* Djokovic to serve first in tie-break *Federer 5-6 DjokovicAna Ivanovic looks on from the stands, a smile flickering across her face as Hopman Cup team-mate Djokovic moves to 40-0. Brief resistance from Federer but Nole powers his way through and is now guaranteed at least a tie-break in this first set.
* denotes next server Federer 5-5 Djokovic*Pressure? What pressure? Federer squares things up again with a sublime hold to love, Djokovic a mere spectator in that one.
* denotes next server
andrewmg86 on 606:
"To Shaz in Slough - Nole is a spitting image of Screech from Saved by the Bell. Remember that anyone?"
*Federer 4-5 DjokovicFederer ups the ante at a critical point in the set, reeling off trademark winners on both the backhand forehand sides to bring up 0-30. Another net cord forces Djokovic to surge forward but Federer's attempted pass can only find the net. Nole regains control with a heavy forehand winner and, despite squandering a few game points, gets that fist pumping when Federer loops a backhand beyond the baseline. Federer will now serve to stay in the set.
* denotes next server
Anon via text on 81111: "Dom at Warwick Uni obviously didn't watch the Murray vs Nadal match at the tour finals. It will be tough but Muzzer can certainly win it?
Federer 4-4 Djokovic*A mid-rally net cord helps sees Federer move to 40-0 and although Djokovic scrambles around the baseline to get one point back, the second seed comes through with his third ace of the day.
* denotes next server *Federer 3-4 DjokovicStill precious little to chose between these two. Federer leads their head-to-head 13-6 and has won their previous three meetings, but Djokovic took their last Grand Slam encounter - at last year's US Open. The 2008 Australian Open champion, who saw off Federer en route to that title, claims another fairly comfortable service hold. So far Djokovic has won every point when his first serve has landed in.
* denotes next server Federer 3-3 Djokovic*Murmurs around Rod Laver as two errors off the Federer racquet give Djokovic a sniff at 0-30. In comes Federer and up goes the lob from Djoko... looks long, called out... Nole challenges the decision but Hawkeye backs the line judge. Roger gets to 40-30 but back comes Djokovic. It takes a cute forehand drop shot and heavy serve on advantage to get Federer over the line.
* denotes next server
FedsFan on 606:
"Djokovic has been playing really well this tournament whereas Federer is allowing himself to go walkabout a bit too much. Federer doesn't have any more slams left. Every chance is precious now. One huge hurdle is out of the way (Nadal) so what more can he ask for? Just hope the transfer of pressure onto his shoulders now that Nadal is out doesn't lead to him making a mess of things."
Shaz, Slough, via text on 81111: "Does anyone else think Fed is a ringer for Quentin Tarantino? Any look-a-likey suggestions for Nole?
*Federer 2-3 DjokovicA classy game from Nole, that. Four massive serves help him to a love hold, closed out at the net as he wrong-foots Federer with a non-nonsense put-away.
* denotes next server Federer 2-2 Djokovic*John Lloyd on the
Red Button full of praise for the Djokovic forehand... and the Serb duly puts two of them into the net. He recovers from 30-0 down but two laser-guided aces help Federer to a comfortable service hold.
* denotes next server *Federer 1-2 DjokovicFederer pounces on a second serve with a backhand winner down the line but then spoons a chipped approach into the net. Djokovic unleashes a couple of huge forehands, the second wrapping up the service hold, albeit with the aid of a net cord.
* denotes next server Federer 1-1 Djokovic*A slightly tense opener from Federer, too. Djokovic gets the 16-time Grand Slam champion to 30-30 and should put away a relatively straightforward backhand for break point. But he dumps it into the net and Federer comes through with an exquisite crosscourt forehand pass which leaves Djokovic stranded at the net.
* denotes next server *Federer 0-1 DjokovicIt's looking like a mightily strong start by Djokovic until a couple of big double-faults hand Federer a
break point. The 2008 champion outlasts his opponent in an exhausting baseline rally to save it before the Swiss shanks a backhand to put Djokovic back in control. A resounding forehand overpowers Federer to seal the deal.
* denotes next server 0842: So here we go, Djokovic to serve. "Play"...
Dom, Warwick Uni, via text on 81111: "I wouldn't be surprised if Federer was classing this as his Final. In the last few months the gulf between the Top 3 and the chasing pack has be en clear for all to see. Win this and I think Grand Slam Number 17 is a certainty (Sorry Murray)."
Alastair, Southampton, via text on 81111: "Djokovic was runner up at the 2007 US Open before winning the Australian Open four months later in 2008. En route to that win he beat Roger Federer in the semi finals. Djokovic was runner up at the US Open four months ago... omen for Djokovic's chances today and for the rest of the tournament?"
Caroline Wozniacki on Twitter:
"Unfortunately i lost a tough battle today against Li Na who played a really good match! I had a matchpoint in the second set but didnt take It! Its tough now, but i will be back even stronger!! Thanks for all the support!! My fans mean a lot to me!!"
0839: The pair scuttle to the net, where umpire Enric Molina asks them to pose for a snap before performing the coin toss. Warm-ups under way and the buzz around Rod Laver suggests the spectators are rather excited about this one.
0835: Djokovic leads Federer on to Rod Laver. Big cheers for both men but Roger's ovation certainly the louder. I expect you lot to be similarly vocal through Twitter (via hashtag
#BBCAussieOpen
),
606
(from 0900 GMT) or text on
81111 (UK) with TENNIS before your message. Should you need a specific question answered
Tweet @bbcsport_david
and I'll endeavour to get you an answer.
0830: Just seen pics of Britain's
Andy Murray having an evening hit with Mats Merkel on Rod Laver Arena. Murray, lest we forget, faces David Ferrer at 0830 GMT on Friday for the right to face either Federer or Djokovic. Needless to say, Murray v Ferrer will be all over the Beeb. The Scot's made his way back to the locker room, the fans have taken their seats and Melbourne Park's centre court is all set for the opening men's semi. Should be a cracker.
spdocoffee on 606:
"The stage is set for an almighty rumble. Should be a great game. Would be surprised if someone came through in three sets. Weighing up everything in my mind, I think Federer will make it through in four or five tough sets."
0830: Just seen pics of Britain's
Andy Murray having an evening hit with Mats Merkel on Rod Laver Arena. Murray, lest we forget, faces David Ferrer at 0830 GMT on Friday for the right to face either Federer or Djokovic. Needless to say, Murray v Ferrer will be all over the Beeb. The Scot's made his way back to the locker room, the fans have taken their seats and Melbourne Park's centre court is all set for the opening men's semi. Should be a cracker.
0826: Another big BBC production of sorts, this. You can watch it live via the
Red Button and right here
online , while audio coverage is brought you by
5 live sports extra. Kick-off 0830 GMT.
spdocoffee on 606:
"The stage is set for an almighty rumble. Should be a great game. Would be surprised if someone came through in three sets. Weighing up everything in my mind, I think Federer will make it through in four or five tough sets."
0820: It's semi-final number seven for Federer in Australia's second most-populous city and the defending champion's bidding to reach Sunday's showpiece for the fifth time. Standing in his way... world number three and 2008 champion
Novak Djokovic.
0815: Morning all. Semi-finals time at the Australian Open and that must mean
Roger Federer back on court. After all, not since 2003 has the great Swiss failed to reach the last four at Melbourne Park.
From Baz in Leicester via text: "Maybe the women's no1 and no2 being knocked out is an omen? Watch out Fedex! "
Maybe it is. Keep brewing on those predictions though because David Ornstein will be taking up the baton at just before 0830 GMT and he'll want them fresh and final from then. Thanks for your company. 0703: Those of you waiting for the men's semi-final between Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer are going to have to hold your many horses for another 90 minutes or so. Those two are due on court at 0830 GMT. In the meantime you can take a little look at what Piers made of the second women's semi-final
in amongst all of this.
0658: Clijsters also reveals that she may, in a hasty moment, have promised her coach Wim Fissette that she would shave her head if she won a second Grand Slam on her comeback. She got to polish up his noggin after her success in the 2009 US Open. Husband Brian Lynch might confiscate the clippers she admits. Boo.
0654: "I knew I needed to come out here and lift my game against Vera today," says Clijsters in her on-court interview. "I just really tried to focus on my tennis and do what I do best by dictating then points and making my opponent play just one more shot. That's what you have to do, you have to be the last one standing."
Clijsters 6-3 6-3 Zvonareva It is Li v Clijsters in the final.
KIM CLIJSTERS THROUGH TO AUSTRALIAN OPEN FINAL Zvonareva is left stumbling as Clijsters wallops one across court to move 15-30 up and Zvonareva looks to have little left. She is hardly in the picture as Clijsters puts away a leisurely forehand for two match points. The Russian grunts gets higher and higher and Clijsters batters away and she eventually is so far behind the baseline that Clijsters drop volley is an easy winner for the Belgian.
Clijsters 6-3 5-3 Zvonareva * This could be interesting. Zvonareva rolls one down the line for 0-30 and presses on to earn two break points. Both slide fractionally wide though and Hawkeye can't change that for the Russian. Zvonareva looks demoralised and blows whatever chance remained from deuce with two sloppy shots.
* Clijsters 6-3 4-3 Zvonareva The court is split into a shaded and light side as the sun starts to dip behind the stands and Zvonareva takes advantage by firing one into the dark and dingy corner of Clijsters court. Clijster radar seems to be thrown askew as she misses one down the line and Zvonareva holds to love for some much needed stability.
Clijsters 6-3 4-2 Zvonareva * Zvonareva needlessly pushes a return a little too deep and then comes off the loser in a baseline duel that ends with one plugged into the net. The Russian floats long to hand over another game and time for a riposte is ticking away...
* Clijsters 6-3 3-2 Zvonareva Zvonareva looks short of ideas about how to stop this onslaught and she wafts a drop shot well wide to allow Clijsters back to 30-40. The Belgian is a fraction long though in the next rally. The game slips away but Clijsters is well in command of the match.
David Law on Twitter:
"Success of Li in reaching the final has just been applauded in the media room. Says a lot. Wozniacki a good sport though."
Clijsters 6-3 3-1 Zvonareva * Clijsters rattles through that service game to love. There is only one way this one's heading at the moment. A repeat of the Sydney International's Li v Clisters ding dong from earlier this month could be round the corner.
* Clijsters 6-3 2-1 Zvonareva Clijsters opens up her shoulders and blasts through Zvonareva's backhand defences to head to 15-30. A touch of silk to go with the steel as Clijsters dribbles a flaky little drop-shot into to the front of the court, but Zvonareva runs it down and slaps away the subsequent attempted lob. Clijsters is relentless though and earns a break point and Zvonareva is still a mile away for replicating her opponent's accuracy as she fires squarely between the tramlines to drop behind.
Clijsters 6-3 1-1 Zvonareva * Zvonareva is shuttling desperately from side to side as Clijsters pings the ball to all corners, but Vera manages to make an impression as by grinding her way to 30-30, But it is in vain. Clijsters clatters an arcing forehand down the line and is home and hosed once Zvonareva plants one into the net.
* Clijsters 6-3 0-1 Zvonareva Zvonareva's sliced forehand gives Clijsters plenty of time to stroll in and flick away a winner for 15-15 and the world number two looks peeved as she offers up a couple of break points with an overcooked forehand. One is back in the bag with a no-nonsense double-handed backhand, no high Henin-style flourish to mark the Belgian's retirement here, and the next follows with a big serve. The salvage job is completed with a couple of swift points off deuce.
Clijsters 6-3 Zvonareva * Clijsters rolls one down the line for 30-15 and then an error from Zvonareva gives the Belgian two set points. She only needs the one as she dispatches a fierce forehand volley after creeping to the net under the cover of a series of booming groundstrokes that drag Zvonareva from side to side. A strangely low-key set is all done. Is it just the Li Na v Caroline Wozniacki comedown I'm suffering here?
* Clijsters 5-3 Zvonareva The claret-clad Zvonareva gleefully launches into a drive volley to bring up 30-15 and then repeats the trick before double-faulting to allow Clijsters a glimmer. Everything looks like it is going to be ok for the number two seed as she lines up a straightforward smash, but she inexplicably fires a beamer towards the heads of the line judges at the back of the court. She could be made to pay as Clijsters goes to break point. A line judge, perhaps taking revenge for his narrow escape earlier in the game, rules Vera's first serve out and the second is bashed away by Clijsters for a break.
Clijsters 4-3 Zvonareva * A Clijsters serve splits the tee and leaves Zvonareva head bowed. An attempt to wrong-foot the Russian next point up proves a little too clever for its own good though and there is a brief hint of a chance at 15-30. It is snuffed out pretty sharpish as Clijsters' heavy hitting off the floor takes its toll on her opponent.
* Clijsters 3-3 Zvonareva Zvonareva whips one down the line and hammers Clijsters floated return into the court and off stage left to move 30-0 up. But Zvonareva is caught on the hop by a deep shot from Clijsters and Hawkeye is doing her no favours. The Belgian slaps two successive returns into the net though and we are all square.
From Dan via text: "Good morning everyone, what a great piece of sporting drama that was! I backed Na Li to win the tournament at odds of 66/1 each way- shes not the only one thinking about prize money now! Good luck everyone in fending off the fiendish temptress of sleep"
Clijsters 3-2 Zvonareva * Clijsters forced Zvonareva deep behind the baseline but her tentative drop-shot lands somewhere towards the foot of the net as she lets Vera off the hook momentarily. She is only spared for a moment through as the Russian pushes one long to concede the game.
* Clijsters 2-2 Zvonareva Zvonareva gets her bearings as well now and holds comfortably.
Clijsters 2-1 Zvonareva * Clisters steps into a backhand winner that kicks away for a 30-15 lead, Zvonareva punts long and then the first ace of the match ties down the first hold of the match and the players head for their first changeover.
* Clijsters 1-1 Zvonareva Neither player showing an iron grip on their serve by any means in these early stages. An exchange of pat-a-cake volleys ends with Zvonareva over-stretched and brings up 0-40. Three break points for Clijsters. The second is converted as Hawkeye confirms to Zvonareva that she has sprayed wide.
Clijsters 0-1 Zvonareva *Clijsters begins with a double fault and Zvonareva punches home a forehand volley to set up break point, which duly follows as Clijsters cuffs one over the baseline. A manual refresh should put my name up in lights as well if you please.
0535: Vera Zvonareva is hoping it will be third time lucky in a Grand Slam after losing in the final of the US Open and Wimbledon last season, while Kim Clijsters will be looking to go one better than she did in 2004 where she fell at the last against compatriot Justine Henin. Clijsters to serve...
0530: The second semi-finalists are out on Rod Laver Arena very swiftly - some might say a bit too swiftly - and I'm going to hand you over to Mike Henson for that one. Federer v Djokovic to follow at 0830 GMT.
5 live's David Law on Twitter:
"Success of Li in reaching the final has just been applauded in the media room. Says a lot. Wozniacki a good sport though."
0522: Oh, she's good.
Li Na is in great form in the post-match chat. Asked why she made a slow start tonight: "I didn't have a good evening last night because my husband sleep like, you know…"hoink (or similar snoring noise)!" I was waking up every hour." And what kept her going when she was behind? "Prize money."
Wozniacki 6-3 5-7 3-6 It's 30-15, and Li waits in the middle of the court for a defensive Wozniacki lob to drop right in front of her.... and then smacks the forehand over the line. Nerves are taking hold but she gathers herself to win the next rally and earn her first
match point.... a huge rally finally ends when Wozniacki swings a forehand wider and
Li Na is into the final.
Wozniacki 6-3 5-7 3-5 Li * Wozniacki uses up her last challenge of the set by questioning a winner that takes Li to
break point, and the Chinese plays a powerful rally that ends with Wozniacki netting a backhand. One hold and she will be China's first ever Grand Slam singles finalist.
* Wozniacki 6-3 5-7 3-4 Li For those of you mystified by that last text, Wozniacki is a pretty serious Liverpool fan, so she'll have the comfort of
last night's win over Fulham
should she lose this match. Watching John Pantsil's own goal might give her a giggle too. The Dane might not need cheering up though, as she gets the break back when Li fires a backhand long on
break point.
From Somerset via text: "Morning Piers. Still gutted for Rafa, and so so SO gutted for Juju - what a loss that is for the women's game. Can't decide who I want to win the next semi, but I know with this one - come on Caroline, my fellow (honorary!) Scouser!"
Wozniacki 6-3 5-7 2-4 Li * Wozniacki makes a rare move towards the net following in a mid-court forehand and puts the resultant smash into the very bottom of the net. A double fault follows and it's 30-30. Wozniacki is again drawn towards the net and shows her discomfort up there by moving far too early to her left, leaving Li acres of space to hit the winner.
Break point.... Li nets a backhand in a long rally, but then makes a nerveless drive volley to earn a
second break point.... which she takes.
* Wozniacki 6-3 5-7 2-3 Li A swift hold to 15 comes as something of a surprise and puts Li in the driving seat.
Wozniacki 6-3 5-7 2-2 Li * Li pounds away on the forehand and gets to 0-40 and
three break points... and Wozniacki floats a backhand long. This match is anyone's.....
* Wozniacki 6-3 5-7 2-1 Li Li enjoys a huge slice of luck with a net cord as she moves to 40-15 but Wozniacki is relentless from the baseline, and the match continues to swing on whether Li is hitting or missing from the baseline. At the moment, she's missing, and a forehand error gives Wozniacki
break point.... and Li nets a forehand.
Wozniacki 6-3 5-7 1-1 Li * Wozniacki gets out of jail after seeing another lead in a game chipped away before the gentlest of second serves at 40-30, but Li reverts to her earlier mode of blasting the return about six feet over the baseline. The players are feeling the tension but I'm struggling too at the moment, too scrappy.
* Wozniacki 6-3 5-7 0-1 Li Wozniacki makes a positive start to the final set but Li recovers from 0-30 to game point, only to net a forehand after getting a bit tangled up attempting a drive volley. The Chinese hangs on from deuce.
Wozniacki 6-3 5-7 Li * Wozniacki sees a 30-0 lead disappear and from deuce, Li gets to
set point.... but absolutely blazes a forehand wide. Wozniacki then gets out of a deep hole at deuce with another defensive lob that Li makes mess of, but the Chinese earns
set point number two... and Wozniacki doubles. After 103 minutes we're heading into a decider.
* Wozniacki 6-3 5-6 Li Li holds to love and all of a sudden looks favourite for this set.
Wozniacki 6-3 5-5 Li * Wozniacki starts off a little nervously but Li plays yet another poor return and it's 15-15. Li moves ahead with a thumping forehand but Wozniacki responds with a forehand the line, 30-30. Li gets a look at a second serve but smacks the return wide and it's
match point.... Li saves it with a big forehand down the line and then wins an epic rally to earn a
break point.... which she takes with more positive hitting. Topsy. Turvy.
* Wozniacki 6-3 5-4 Li A great Wozniacki volley and a Li double fault help the Dane to
two break points at 15-40... and Li sprays a forehand so wide I think it misses the outside tram line. Wozniacki will serve for a place in her second Grand Slam final. And apparently it's turning into a bit of a scorcher, so the sun graphic is getting a run out.
Wozniacki 6-3 4-4 Li * Li really needs to get something going on the return game but makes another dreadful start with two errors. A backhand in the net makes it 40-0 for Wozniacki and all is going swimmingly, before nerves finally appear to grip the Dane (every time I write 'the Dane' I think of the theatre - one day, I shall play him) with the finish line in sight. Li is pretty much handed five points in a row and we're back on serve.
* Wozniacki 6-3 4-3 Li Wozniacki is powering towards the finish line here, chasing everything down as well as ever and looking aggressive on the return, but Li hangs on to her coat tails with a battling game. Li finds a good serve at 0-30 and attacks the net to force the error for 30-30, and at game point wins a lengthy baseline exchange when Wozniacki goes long.
Wozniacki 6-3 4-2 Li * It's impressive stuff from Wozniacki at the moment as she holds to love and Li has not really got near a break point so far in the second set.
* Wozniacki 6-3 3-2 Li And she does, Li takes it to 15 with an ace and remains in touch.
Wozniacki 6-3 3-1 Li * Nope, she doesn't need that. Li has a chance to break straight back at 30-30 but then makes two successive backhand errors to give up the game. She was always going to make more unforced errors than Wozniacki but 24-8 is still a tough stat to overcome. She must hold the next game, surely.
* Wozniacki 6-3 2-1 Li Wozniacki hits an absolute belter of a backhand down the line at 40-15 and Li then double faults for deuce. Li moves into the net but Wozniacki fizzes another backhand down low and the Chinese player nets the volley.
Break point... and Li takes control, moving forward behind some heavy blows to see off the danger. Wozniacki earns a
second break point... and Li smacks an ace down the 'T'. Whoops, Li shanks a smash over the baseline and it's
break point number three... Li saves it with a deft drop volley. Wozniacki will not back down, though, and two winners get her a
fourth break point... and Li double faults, which was somehow inevitable. Quite a game.
From Mark Reid, Edinburgh, via text: "Checked out weather for next few days in Melbourne...Judy get that ice bath ready for ur laddie on sunday!"
Wozniacki 6-3 1-1 Li * Wozniacki belts a backhand winner from the baseline, which takes us all by surprise a bit, and seals the game with a heavy second serve.
* Wozniacki 6-3 0-1 Li Li rattles through her first service game of the second set. As for today's celebs, I give you James Frecheville, Matt Lee, Lance "buddy" Franklin and Vince Colosimo, who does have a good name, at least.
* denotes NEXT to serve
KiwiTiger12 on Twitter:
"Today's celebs at #BBCAussieOpen Piers? Could be down to Peter Andre and Sir Les Paterson. Been a long two weeks!"
Wozniacki 6-3 Li * Wozniacki's defensive skills are to the fore once again as she wins a lengthy first point after looking out of it at one stage. A double fault at 30-0 brings Li back into the game but a poor return at 30-30 hands Wozniacki a
set point.... and the Dane takes it after a Hawkeye review.
* Wozniacki 5-3 Li Li fires a couple of winners down the line to get to 40-30, and another backhand into the same corner is too much for Wozniacki. can the Dane serve this one out?.
Judy Murray on Twitter:
"Hot hot hot today. And so was george morgan. Comes from a set down to reach boys semis. Top seed next. Get in that ice bath!!!!!!"
Wozniacki 5-2 Li * Wozniacki double faults at 30-0 and is under pressure in the following point but a brilliant lob off the back foot gets her back into the rally and Li eventually throws in a backhand error - classic Woz. Li moves to 15 unforced errors, Wozniacki remains on three.
* Wozniacki 4-2 Li Li is a player known for getting a bit edgy at times and she doesn't look too comfortable out there as she is forced to make the running against the primarily defensive Wozniacki. The Chinese player is in big trouble at 15-40 but fights her way back to deuce, only to net a regulation backhand for
break point number three... double fault!
Jude from Coventry via text: "Booked the day off work to be able to watch all the tennis tonight/this morning. Reckon it could be Li in 3 Clijsters in 2 Djokovic in 5. Bed in 1 0 (hours!)"
From Ian via text: "Up looking after my wife who has pregnancy sickness so please make this interesting. Pity murray not playing though i dare not ask her to plan he r sickness better!"
From Martin in London via text: "In the middle of a night shift! Hoping the boys and girls in OZ make it entertaining to keep me awake, 4 HOURS To go and just managing to be hanging onnn........zzzzzz"
Wozniacki 3-2 Li * A very welcome love hold for Wozniacki and she gives the first fist clench of the day before jogging back to her chair,
a la Stefan Edberg.
* Wozniacki 2-2 Li Li gets back on level terms by holding to 30, just missing out on a love game when an attempted pass just clips the net and loops out, but sealing the game with a dead net cord. So fair's fair.
strictlyMUFC on Twitter:
"Will really miss seeing @Justine_Henin play. Her backhand is/was (?) so dreamy. If it was a person I'd fall in-love with it! #BBCAussieOpen"
Alex Ward on Twitter:
"Wozniackis looking good for the win here, shame about the nicorette patch on her shin though! #bbcaussieopen"
Wozniacki 2-1 Li * Li is making more than her fair share of unforced errors - seven to Wozniacki's one so far - but she's going for her shots more and a forehand pummelled into the corner gets her to 15-40 and
two break points.... and the Chinese player converts the second with a move to the net.
* Wozniacki 2-0 Li Wozniacki hits a fine cross-court winner on the run before a double-fault and an error from Li make it 0-40 and
three break points... and after the Dane wastes two with unforced errors, Li helps her out with a forehand over the baseline.
Brad Gilbert on Twitter:
"Wozza-Li Na/Na Li is a very open match. Li Na is the form player. Li has been on fire, 10-0 this year. all signs point to her winning. hard to say it would be an upset with the No.1 winning, but Wozza in 3."
Wozniacki 1-0 Li * Li creates a bit of space in the opening rally and thumps away a cross-court backhand, and a similarly forceful forehand gets her to 30-30, but a wayward return and a very wayward drive volley hand Wozniacki the game.
* denotes NEXT to serve 0241: Here we go, Wozniacki to serve....
From Sonal in London via text: "Hope it's a wozniacki vs clijisters final. Staying up all night for this so hope they finish before my commute to uni!"
0233: First up we have world number one Wozniacki from Denmark and China's in-form Li, who's on a 10-match winning streak. Both women are attempting to win a first Grand Slam singles title for their nation, and Wozniacki might be the number one but
Li has won their last two matches,
including a fourth-round encounter in Melbourne last year. And here they come onto a sunnyish Rod Laver Arena....
0231: If you have any thoughts on today's matches, Henin's retirement, the demise of Rafa or anything else tennis-related, get in touch via
Twitter
with the hashtag
#BBCAussieOpen
. If you have a specific enquiry for me, go for
@piersnewbery,
or alternatively you can send a text to
81111 (UK) with TENNIS before your message.
0230: Excellent news, British junior
George Morgan is building impressively on his Orange Bowl victory at the end of last year and is through to the boys' semi-finals after a 5-7 6-2 6-3 win over Jeson Patrombon of the Philippines.
0225: The women's game is still coming to terms with
the retirement of seven-time Grand Slam champion and possessor of 'the' backhand,
Justine Henin.
Twelve months ago
she made it to the final in Melbourne
in her first Grand Slam after ending her initial spell in retirement. It's sad to think that it proved to be the high point of her second tennis life, rather than the starting point. Any favourite Juju moments? For me, her back-to-back wins over Venus and Serena on the way to
winning the 2007 US Open
were among the best performances I've ever seen, by anyone. It's a long shot, but let's hope today's action can get somewhere near that exalted level.
0220: Morning all, you're keen. Another enthralling day lies before us and the battle with time zones and sleep patterns is nearly done as we enter the semi-final stage. First up tonight are the two women's semis, with
Caroline Wozniack v Li Na about to start and
Kim Clijsters v Vera Zvonareva to follow. Then it's over to the boys for
Roger Federer v Novak Djokovic from 0830 GMT.
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