Expect the Unexpected in Final

Jan 27, 01:35 AM

Djokovic (left) faces surprise package Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in Melbourne after top seeds Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal were overwhelmed in the semis.

It will be the first time since 2005 either Federer or Nadal has failed to reach a Grand Slam final. And World No.3 Djokovic believes today's unexpected matchup shows the healthy state of men's tennis. The 20-year-old said: "It means a lot to see somenew faces in the finals.

"It's fantastic for the sport. The dominance of Federer and Nadal has been amazing but it's great for tennis lovers to see something new."

World No.38 Tsonga (right) thrashed Nadal 6-2 6-3 6-2 on Thursday and Djokovic is well aware of the 22-year-old's ability.

He said: "Tsonga's a fantastic athlete and has been playing some impressive tennis in these two weeks - as I have. I still haven't lost a set here which is amazing.

"It will be interesting to see two young players facing up to each other as they both chase a first Grand Slam title."

(c) 2008 Sunday Mail; Glasgow (UK). Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved. Expect the Unexpected in Final
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