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Come Fan with UsThursday, July 9, 2026

Rafael Nadal Vs. Roger Federer: Rafa Advances To Australian Open Final, Calls It ‘A Dream’

Bill Hanstock
Bill Hanstock is a writer, author and Emmy Award-winning producer. He began writing for SB Nation in 2011.

In the men’s semifinals of the 2012 Australian Open, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer had yet another instant classic. This time, it was Nadal who came out on top, advancing to the finals in four grueling sets.

Nadal, who has been dealing with a knee injury the entire tournament, had this to say after the match, according to SI.com:

If you tell me that two Sundays ago, I really cannot imagine. For me, it’s a dream to be back in a final of the Australian Open.

Courtney Walsh of The Australian had more comments from Nadal following his victory over Federer, who he referred to as “the greatest of all time.”

To play against Roger is an honor. I think it was another fantastic match.

He was also asked about the other semifinals match between Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray, which has yet to be played.

I think both players are playing fantastic. Novak is playing fantastic and is coming with confidence. Andy, if he wants to win that match, he has to play more aggressive than usual. That is my advice, but that is probably not great as I have lost the last six matches against him.

For more on the tournament, visit our tennis hub.

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