It is Roger Federer vs Rafael Nadal again in the 2012 Australian Open tennis. How long will the rivalry of these two last? This is their 27th meeting actually, and the Spaniard is up against the Swiss 17-9 in their previous matches.

In the first of the 2012 Grand Slam tournaments, in Melburne, Australia, the two will clash once more, but not in the finals. Both are trailing Novak Djokovic in the rankings, so they are expected to meet in the semis should they beat everyone along their way.

In the quarters, Federer defeated Juan Martin del Potro 6-4, 6-3, 6-2. It was an easy victory for the 4-time Australian Open Champion. On the other court, Nadal labored to dismantle the stubborn Tomas Berdych 6-7, 7-6, 6-4, 6-3. The Spaniard struggled in the first set before dominating the Czech.

Roger Federer vs Rafael Nadal 2012 Australian Open Prediction

Though it is sometimes boring to hear another Federer vs Nadal match, this year should be different as neither one of them is no.1. The last time they met here in 2009, Roger cried as he was beaten in the finals by Rafa. It was also memorable for Rafa as it was his first hard court Grand Slam victory. Also, Nadal is chasing Federer’s 16 Grand Slam titles. With 10 trophies on his possession, a win in Melbourne will lessen the gap.

If we go with the trend, Rafa has the edge. But I’m no follower of Rafa, and I would always cheer for any of his opponents, even if the guy is unranked. So here I go again predicting a victory for Federer in 4 sets.

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