Tomorrow morning could well be one of the last times we could see Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer take each other on at this stage of a Grand Slam which makes it a match to savour.
But since 2007, Federer has been unable to beat Nadal in a Grand Slam match.
Regardless of recent form, tomorrow's Australian Open semi-final between the pair is a mouth-watering encounter with Federer appearing rejuvenated under the wing of new coach Stefan Edberg while Nadal was beset by painful blisters during his quarter-final.
But is not necessarily Nadal's too lose according to ESPN's Luke Jensen who joined us and The New York Times' Christopher Clarey to preview a much-awaited resumption of an iconic rivalry.
"My thing is, it's a faster court," said Jensen. "The ball doesn't bounce as high and at least gives some hope for Roger Federer who doesn't like the ball getting up on his backhand with the massive amount of spin that Nadal brings. Plus the matchup is bad for Federer. Nadal's lefty forehand cross-court to the Achilles heel of Federer, the backhand. But a new racket for Federer with a little bit more pop, and a new coach and voice in his ear in Stefan Edberg, to be honest, I think Roger will win it in four."
Clarey also agrees that the court suits Federer but does not see him winning a "close match", tipping Nadal to win it in four or five sets.
Jensen analysed Edberg's impact on Federer's game, explaining that the Swiss maestro is quickening up points and transitioning as soon as possible.
"I think if he keeps up what he's doing with his forehand approach in this tournament, he'll put Nadal on the defensive and force Nadal to come with shots in key situations. He's not looking to stay in prolonged rallies because the longer the match, the longer the rally, the more it favours Nadal."
The lads also picked their favourite Federer v Nadal matches and discussed where the rivalry will rank in the pantheon of tennis match-ups.
And Jensen warned: "If Roger doesn't win this match and this major, Rafa's going to catch him and pass 17 Majors."
Image: Roger Federer congratulates Rafael Nadal after the legendary 2008 Wimbledon final ©INPHO/Getty Images
