U.S. Open Tourney: Men's Semifinals Odds and Picks
By Charles Bricker
(1) Roger Federer (-388) vs. (4) Novak Djokovic (+345)
There will be no "freshness" issue after both got three days off because of rain delay, but the winner still will have to play the semis and final on consecutive days. That will be Djokovic, who I think senses this is his moment to show that he's not just a pretty good joker, but a serious candidate for No. 1.
Federer leads the head to head 8-4 and 3-0 in Grand Slam matches, including a U.S. Open final. But Djokovic has beaten Federer two out of three this year, so he knows what he's capable of.
Federer is not going to make any changes. He'll play his game. Djokovic, however, has to continue coming forward, even if he fears Federer's passing shots. And he's got to maneuver Federer into cross-court backhand rallies, where Djokovic has a major edge.
Federer: 52-7 for the year. Djokovic: 58-16.
Pick: Djokovic
(3) Rafael Nadal (-137) vs. (6) Juan Martin Del Potro (+126)
If Nadal was in prime physical condition, there wouldn't be much doubt about the outcome. But he's got an abdominal injury that hinders his serving and can be a problem on running, stretch forehand ground strokes.
Nevertheless, the rest of his game is there and will be good enough to win this and reach another major final. Del Potro has reached elite status because, at age 20, he's pumped up his serve over what it was a year ago. And he's absolutely solid in all other phases of the game, including his volleying. Nadal is 54-7 for the season, Del Potro 47-11.
Pick: Nadal
Tourney record: 26-10 (Pending Women's semifinals results)