Kiefer's Mission

Nicolas Kiefer's progress is this year's tournament has surprised many and the German told Eurosport that he believes he still has the energy to challenge his Swiss opponent in his first ever major semi-final.

"I worked really hard in November and December. I worked a lot on my fitness level. And that pays off now. But my aim is not only to play well here but over the whole season."

Despite the opinion of the majority of the tennis world, Kiefer is not ready to concede defeat just yet.

"My aim must be to beat him, that is the reason why I enter the court. I have to get as much out of my body as possible," he said. "Of course I realize that I am a bit tired but we play 2 days after the last match. And my aim must be not to win one set I have to try to tease him that he doesn't find his rhythm. I have to play my game, I have to force him to play my game and the only aim is to beat him."

The world number 25 was also keen to give credit to his coach Sascha Nensel, as he looks to climb back up the rankings towards his career-high fourth, achieved six years ago.

"He is able to get things out of me. His relaxed attitude is really good for me. And I am happy that we have this success right in the beginning. But this is not our aim. Our aim is to work on a long term. I am 28 years old and who knows how long I will continue to play. And I hope that I can work with him until the end of my career."

However, standing in Kiefer's way is the incomparable figure of world number one, Roger Federer.

Now seriously in the hunt for a seventh major title, and his second in Melbourne, he was forced to admit his surprise that Kiefer had made it this far after coming back from two sets down to beat Thailand's Paradorn Srichaphan in the first round.

"After seeing how he was down against Srichaphan, yes. Because I just saw bits and pieces of that match and I changed the TV channel and I thought he was out. Next thing I know is that I see him at the grounds, walking around and playing matches... (laughs) So I am surprised to see him in the Semis now."

Will Federer remain surprised when they face eash other on Friday? It seems unlikely.

Australian Open: Men's draw