'Disappointed' Federer not finished

[DexteR]

Roger Federer is adamant he can still win grand slams despite losing in the semi-final of the Australian Open to Novak Djokovic.

The world No. 2 was no match for the impressive Serbian on Thursday, who surprised his more illustrious opponent to win in straight sets 7-6(7) 7-5 6-4.

With world No. 1 Rafael Nadal going out in the previous round at the hands of David Ferrer - struggling with a troublesome leg injury - Federer was nevertheless dismissive of suggestions that their time at the top of the game had come to an end.

"It's not the end in any way. It's a start for many other tournaments after this," Federer said. "Sure, it is disappointing and it hurts at this moment. I wish I could have won here for a fifth time but it wasn't possible tonight."

It is the first time since 2008 neither Nadal or Federer will be in a grand slam final, but when the Swiss was told this he rubbished its wider significance.

"They say that very quickly," Federer snapped. "Let's talk again in six months' time."

The 29-year-old nevertheless took the time to praise his opponent's performance. Djokovic, winner in this event three years ago, played a fine game predicated on relentless serving and powerful hitting from the baseline that the Swiss simply couldn't overcome.

"I thought he played a great match," Federer said. "I didn't think I played badly myself and it was a match played at a very high intensity for a long period of time. We had long, tough rallies and played at a very high speed."

For his part, Djokovic agreed that it would be presumptuous to write off Federer as no longer one of the game's best players.

"It's much too early to say that," Djokovic said. "Roger is still very much motivated to reclaim the top spot in the rankings and he's playing great. Tonight I think I played a better match but he's still up there and in extraordinary form.

"Then you have Nadal who has been a very, very dominant player. We are still behind them and you can't say there is a new era coming up. But there are more players who are able to win majors which is good."

[LoViNg IrFaN]

yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaar

[DexteR]

Federer bhi gaya aur rafa bhi...