By Niall Clarke
- Andy Murray vs David Ferrer preview
- Head to head: 12-6
- Winner meets Milos Raonic or Gael Monfils in the last four
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA- Andy Murray will look to extend his winning streak against David Ferrer to six straight victories when the pair meet in the quarter finals of the Australian Open.
Murray, ranked two in the world, holds a 12-6 head to head advantage over the Spaniard and has won their past five meetings. However Ferrer has been in fine form and is the only man not to drop a set en route to the quarter finals.
The 33 year old might not have the weapons to win the major titles but his consistency in recent years can only be admired. Despite being 33 years old, Ferrer is living proof that despite being past your ‘peak’ years you can still contest for the main titles- much like Roger Federer.
Ferrer is arguably the best example of a player who has maximised their potential through hard work and sheer will. It is that determination that is evident on court and has no doubt contributed to his longevity in the sport.
It seems to be a common theme among the top 10 with five being aged 30 years old or above. The youngest is Kei Nishikori who is 26 years old. Murray spoke of his admiration of the likes of Ferrer and Federer and hopes he can continue to perform at a top level at that stage of his career.
“Well, Roger’s in kind of the same position as him. Both of them have been around the game for a long, long time and been up at the top.” The Brit said in his post match press conference
“The more players that do that, I think the more other players look at it and go, Actually, you know, I can do that as well. You don’t have to retire when you’re 31 now or when you’re 32. As long as you still have the passion and dedication to work hard, and obviously if you can stay injury-free, it’s possible.
“Even Feliciano Lopez. He’s 35 this year, too. There’s a lot of guys that seem to be playing a little bit longer now. All it comes down to is really the body. If the body’s okay, your passion. He obviously works extremely hard. He’s in good shape. He fights so hard in every single match. He’s been rewarded for that with an unbelievably consistent career at the top of the game.
“This year he’s made some changes to his racquet as well, which would suggest that he’s still trying to improve and trying to learn and do different things, as well.
“Yeah, all credit to him.”
Both Murray and Ferrer came through their round four contests unscathed, but with these two being amongst the quickest players on tour, it is unlikely they will have that fortune against each other.
Expect long and gruelling rallies as well as plenty of service breaks- after all both are also known for their return games rather than serves.
Ferrer is well aware of the challenge he faces, describing Murray as a ’tough’ opponent.
“With Andy, it’s going to be tough.” The Spaniard said.
“He’s playing really good. The last year he finish No. 2 of the world. He improve his game I think so. He’s playing more aggressive. He improve his forehand.
“So I need have a good day, play aggressive. Well, if is possible, will be a long match.”
The chances are that the fans on Rod Laver arena will be treated to a long battle, and that will be exactly what Milos Raonic and Gael Monfils will be hoping for as the winner of their semi finals match will meet either Murray or Ferrer.
Murray and Ferrer are due third on Rod Laver Arena at approximately 3:30AM GMT.
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