Australia have won their semi final over Switzerland 3 rubbers to 2. Todd Woodbridge retired in the 5th rubber against Michel Kratochvil. Michel won the first set 6-4, & then Todd retired.
------
Juan Carlos Ferrero (World Number 1) has been defeated by Agustin Calleri in straight sets, 6-4, 7-5, 6-1. It was a very convincing win to Agustin. Virtually all tennis fans wrote off the Argentines, but to their credit they have silenced the critics. I personally didn't give them much of a chance, & it just goes to show you should never underestimate any opposition.
------
Spain will face Australia in the Final in November after Carlos Moya defeated Gaston Gaudio 6-1, 6-4, 6-2. Carlos just came out on fire, knowing the importance of this rubber, & there was little wonder why he won the first 4 consecutive games. He wasn't afraid of coming into the net, & his big forehand forced Gaston into making multiple errors. Overall, it was a pretty convincing win to Carlos. Spain won their semi final 3 rubbers to 2.
The Final will be played in Australia, & it is expected that the surface will be grass. It promises to be one of the Davis Cup's greatest finals.
------
Lleyton Hewitt, you can say whatever you like about his character, sportsmanship & oncourt demeanour, but there is no question that he is an absolute champion, & yesterday's performance concurred this. He is a great competitor, & that never-say-die attitude just shows you that you can achieve just about anything if you have the determination & enthusiasm to inspire to greater heights. It almost looked that he was down & out when Roger came out to serve for the match in the 3rd set. Lleyton then managed to break his serve to keep the match alive (i.e. back on serve) & went on to win the tiebreak. This was the turning point of the match. The instant Lleyton got back on serve in the 3rd set, he knew that anything could eventuate, & he went on to win in spectacular fashion.
