Novak Djokovic

Federer Tops Nadal, Reaches 12th Wimbledon Final

The 20-time Grand Slam singles champion will face Novak Djokovic for the title on Sunday

Roger Federer will play for a record-extending ninth Wimbledon title in his 12 final at the All England Club after beating Rafael Nadal 7-6 (3), 1-6, 6-3, 6-4 on Centre Court.

The 20-time Grand Slam singles champion will face Novak Djokovic for the title on Sunday.

"I'm exhausted," Federer told the BBC in an interview after the match. "It was tough at the end. Rafa played some unbelievable shots to stay in the match." 

Federer's serve served him well against his Spanish rival, who won their last meeting at Wimbledon in the 2008 final — taking the epic fifth set 9-7 as darkness descended. The Swiss great finished with 14 aces this time and landed 69% of his first serves.

"Battles with Rafa is always special," Federer said Friday.

Federer has won a record eight Wimbledon titles. Nadal has two, and beat Federer in the 2008 final.

This is their 40th showdown on tour; Nadal leads 25-14. It's their 14th match at a major; Nadal leads 10-3. And it's the fourth time at Centre Court; Federer leads 3-1.

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