NOVAK DJOKOVIC is hoping for another classic semi-final against Roger Federer at the French Open today – but a different outcome.
Last year the Serb went into the last-four clash at Roland Garros on a winning streak of 43 matches, but Federer proved too good, coming through in four sets.
Djokovic said: "Last year we were part of a great match that went the distance, and he played incredibly well.
"I thought I played at a very high level.
"I just hope we can have another good match for us and for the crowd to be a part of.
"I think for me it's crucial to be very focused and aggressive from the first moment, because that's something that you can always expect Roger to have, that control over the opponent from the start.
"I will try to be out there believing I can win. Now there is no real favourite for that match. It's the semi-finals, so everything is open."
There is no doubt neither man has been at his best at Roland Garros so far, and both had to fight hard to make it through to the last four.
Djokovic saved four match points in defeating Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, while Federer came from two sets to love down to see off Juan Martin Del Potro.
Federer insisted the Del Potro victory was not something he needed for his confidence.
"I know I can win a match in five sets," said Federer. "I'm not asking myself that kind of question.
"I'm fit. I have no physical problems, which was different three or five weeks ago. I'm very happy.
"It's always good to come back from two sets to zero. You don't always play matches in five sets, and that was one I had to win."
The other semi-final will see Rafa Nadal, who is going for a record seventh French Open title, take on fellow Spaniard David Ferrer who saw off Andy Murray.
No holding back Andy
JOHN McENROE has told Andy Murray to forget about his back problems and present a more positive image to opponents if he wants to break his Grand Slam duck.
McEnroe has been critical of Murray for being too negative on court and shouting at his support team, something the 25-year-old has tried to address – particularly since appointing Ivan Lendl as coach at the end of last year.
He said: "It almost seems like he's just got to get that mental part of it where he's got to forget about it. 'I don't care if my back is hurt, I'm not going to show it.'
"It can work against some guys, I guess, but it's not going to work against the best guys. That's what he's got to think about if he's going to win slams. These guys are tough to beat, really tough."