2008 Australian Open Highlights...

MEN’S AUSTRALIAN OPEN FINAL: 27/01/2008, Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Park: After a tournament filled with shock defeats and much excitement, the Australian Open came to an unlikely but highly intriguing finale, with an encounter between unseeded Jo-Wilfred Tsonga and World No.3 Novak Djokovic, in the Men’s Singles Final.

Having beaten Andy Murray in the 1st round, Tsonga embarked on an astounding run by beating five seeds on his way to the final. Djokovic also caused a huge upset by defeating World No.1 Roger Federer in 3 sets in the semi-final, and made it to the Final without losing a set!

Understandably both players began the match nervously. Tsonga took an early advantage winning some big points, including a spectacular lob winner, to secure the first set 6-4. The second set began with games going with serve, until a few errors from Tsonga and a few reflex winners from Djokovic led to the Serb taking the set 6-4. The third set continued in similar fashion, with Tsonga continuing to make unforced errors and Djokovic taking full advantage, securing the set 6-3.

The tide appeared to turn early in the fourth set, with an injury to Djokovic caused by a lunging volley whilst up 3-2. Having called for the trainer and having a short burst of treatment, Djokovic appeared to want to shorten the rallies in order to avoid a fifth set. Tsonga could not take advantage of Djokovic’s reduced mobility as his own fatigue became evident. The set eventually went to a tie-break after Tsonga held his serve at 5-6. This was a real chance for Tsonga to swing the match back in his favour, however his hopes faded after losing the first 5 points and Djokovic sealed the win, dropping to his knees in delight with his first Grand Slam win.

The Serb was unsurprisingly delighted with his win and enjoyed the moment, whilst later promising to add to his Australian victory. Meanwhile 22 year old Tsonga flew up the world rankings to No. 20 after his remarkable week of providing much entertainment for the Australian Open crowds.


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