Rafael Nadal exults after defeating Roger Federer during their semifinal at the Australian Open in Melbourne.
Federer, who has been in great form all through the season, took control early on.
Nadal relied on sheer energy and focus to stay in the game. Two weeks ago, Nadal had injured his right knee. It seemed unlikely he could labour through a marathon.
Federer exhibited sublime skill and took the first set, although with a nailbiting 6-7 (5).
The staccato volleys on court were suspended for Australia Day fireworks, for 10 minutes.
Part of an evenly split 15,000-strong audience was Kim Clijsters, who earlier in the day lost to third-seeded Azarenka 6-4, 1-6, 6-3.
Nadal's engine had been idling all the while. He went full power ahead and took control of the game.
Federer lost his serve in the next game to give the Spaniard the set. In all, he dropped 11 points in a row. This more or less tipped the balance and it was mostly all Nadal from then on.
Serving for the match, Nadal moved two points away from the win when a Federer backhand went long. He won his second match point when a Federer forehand floated long.
Their on-court rivalry is as well-known as their admiration off it. The titans share a moment after the match.
Nadal all smiles as he signs autographs after the match.
And the inimitable, incredibly fit Fedrer exits the Rod Laver Arena to fight another day. Nadal applauded with the crowd.