Roger Federer is scheduled to play Tomas Berdych later today from Wimbledon 2017. The semifinal match is a late-career opportunity for Federer to capture just one last Wimbledon title perhaps. Meanwhile, Berdych, who is 32 years old, can't take for granted that he'll be this deep in a Grand Slam again. The two veterans should both be very determined to win the semifinal on Friday, producing what promises to be an intense match.
Head-to-head stats
Federer leads on head-to-heads against Berdych 18-6. However, the Czech player has done well enough against Federer to inject a little bit of optimism into his camp.
Berdych beat Federer in 2012 at the US Open, and he beat Federer in 2010 at Wimbledon. A 25% winning percentage against the player that is considered to be the greatest of all time is undoubtedly not egregious. Certainly, Berdych has had more success against Federer than the Czech player has against Novak Djokovic. While most might see Federer as a heavy favorite, individual sets may hinge on a few key points. If things go the Czech's way at key moments, then this could be a competitive affair.
On the other hand, the semifinal hurdle in majors is the one that Berdych has had plenty of trouble clearing. He has been this far in a Grand Slam on six previous occasions. He is just 1-5 in those six matches combined, the one win coming against Djokovic way back in the 2010 Wimbledon semifinals.
With more seasons on tour behind him than ahead of him, it's almost as though the semifinal round of a major is Berdych's ceiling with the one exception.
But a factor that may help redeem the Czech's chances is his fatigue level. Berdych did not face an enduring test in the quarterfinals against Djokovic two days ago. The Serb tapped out down a break and a set, meaning that Berdych's energy levels should be high heading into the semifinals.
He enters the match against Federer having played a little tennis in the last few days. That's a blessing for him, especially at what has to be called the latter stage of his career.
Match to follow Cilic vs. Querrey
Overall, Federer has sizzled in 2017, and if he produces his best tennis or an approximation of it, then it's hard to picture the Czech player winning more than a set.
The two players will meet on Centre Court in what will be the 2nd match of the day. Marin Cilic and Sam Querrey will open the court at 1 pm local time in London. Federer's start time versus Berdych is subject to change as they will follow the conclusion of the Cilic/Querrey semifinal.
