Roger Federer set up a meeting with Rafael Nadal in the Miami Open final after beating Nick Kyrgios in a thrilling semi-final.The Swiss came through 7-6 (11-9), 6-7 (9-11), 7-6 (7-5) in a match that featured three tie-breaks and lasted three hours and 10 minutes.After such a draining contest, Nadal will fancy himself to get revenge on Federer after his Australian Open defeat. But he will also be aware of just how well the 35-year-old is playing right now.Federer has now won 10 matches in a row and is seeking a third title after claiming his 18th Grand Slam in January and the Indian Wells Masters last month.No wonder he’s so chuffed."It felt very good," Federer said afterwards, per Sky Sports. "You don't very often play three breakers in a match. Winning breakers is always such a thrill.
"I tried to really fight for it. I can't always show my fighting skills, it is great winning this way. It could have gone either way."
Federer had too much for Kyrgios
Kyrgios too deserves credit for his part in what was an enthralling match. The fiery Australian was booed by the crowd for his behaviour, which included shouting obscenities and throwing his racket, but he also put on quite the show.
Federer was simply too much for him though. The 21-year-old led 5-4 in the deciding tie-breaker but double-faulted, handing his opponent the chance to serve for the match.
Watch: Kyrgios' furious reaction to defeat
Kyrgios never hides his emotions and he lashed out after Federer sealed the win, furiously slamming his racket into the ground.
Watch the videos below.
You’ll probably find that racket in a Miami bin this morning.
Despite the setback, Kyrgios is certainly getting closer to the top. A few points here or there and it would be him, not Federer, who would be preparing to face Nadal.