AUSTRALIAN OPEN 2009: Federer Escapes; Jankovic Succumbs

13-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer was simply outplayed for slightly more than two sets in his fourth round match against Czech 23-year-old Tomas Berdych at the Australian Open yesterday. After finding his form about half-way through the Federer still managed to win the match 4-6,6-7(4), 6-4,6-4,6-2. The World #2 had 25 unforced errors in the first two sets and was overpowered by the Czech youngsters power and accuracy. In the last three sets, Federer had a mere 15 unforced errors and Berdych was hampered by a loss of mobility due to a strained hamstring. MadProfessah is a huge Federer fan so I'm glad that he was able to get to his record nineteenth consecutive Grand Slam quarterfinal, where he will face the 19-year-old 6 foot 8-inch Juan Martin del Potro of Argetina, who he has a 3-0 record against.

World #1 Jelena Jankovic lost easily in the 4th round to 2007 Wimbledon finalist Marion Bartoli 6-1 6-4. When Bartolis is on, she can hit very hard and paint the lines, reminscent of her idol Monica Seles, who she patterns her two-handed forehand and backhand on. Additionally, Bartoli has been practicing exclusively with male players and has become extensively fitter. She faces Vera Zvonareva in the quarterfinal and has a good chance to meet Dina Safina in her first Australian open semifinal later this week.