One More Time: [3] Roger Federer (SUI) vs [6] Tomas Berdych (CZE)

Roger Federer lost his first meeting with Tomas Berdych at the 2004 Olympic games. Since that time the two have met 20 additional times.  Roger leads their overall head-to-head 16-5.  Berdych does own wins over Roger at both Wimbledon and the US Open.  He also pushed Roger to 5 sets in one of their two previous matches in Melbourne.  This surface is somewhat top Berdych’s advantage as he can hit through this slowish hard court while Roger at times will have to hit around Berdych.  Roger’s versatility and ability to keep the ball low help him versus Berdych.  If both guys play well, Roger should win.  If Tomas plays well and bludgeons Roger into a defensive position, Tomas might win.  If Roger plays well and commands court positioning, Roger will win.  Therefore, I am picking Roger.

My Prediction: Roger Federer d. Tomas Berdych 7-6, 6-3, 6-4