Story highlights
Novak Djokovic crushes Roger Federer 6-2 6-1 in Abu Dhabi exhibition tournament
The world number one takes just 44 minutes to crush Swiss maestro Federer
Djokovic now faces David Ferrer, who powers past compatriot Rafael Nadal 6-3 6-2
World number one Novak Djokovic showed he is over the back and shoulder injuries which hampered the final months of last season with a crushing straight sets victory over Roger Federer in the Abu Dhabi exhibition event.
The Serb, who landed three of the four grand slam tournaments in 2011 on his way to a 70-6 winning record, took just 44 minutes to see off world number three Federer 6-2 6-1.
Djokovic told reporters: “That was definitely an incredible performance and I will get a lot of confidence if I continue playing like that.”
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In the final of the $250,000 tournament, Djokovic will play David Ferrer, who stunned fellow-Spaniard and great friend Rafael Nadal in straight sets.
Ferrer took advantage of a below-par Nadal to win 6-3 6-2, with the world number two blaming a shoulder injury for his poor performance which saw him go 5-0 behind in the opening set.
“I was not in my best condition. I have had a little trouble with my shoulder in the last month, but David was fantastic,” said Nadal.
Meanwhile, Ferrer was delighted with his display, adding: “Rafael has not been able to practice much because of his shoulder, but I played very consistent and was happy with my match.
“It will be very difficult against Novak because he is number one in the world – but I will do my best to make it a good match against him.”
