Davydenko's time arrives

Davydenko, 25, has been described as faceless and efficient during his run to the last four, but that does a disservice to the ruthless play that has dispatched one opponent after another.

On the prospect of facing Federer, the Russian is keen to concentrate upon his own game.

"You need to think you can beat him," he said. "Not like he's No. 1, that's important only in the head.

"But also I try to keep play better and better. I have proved myself, I try hard. We'll see what happens on Saturday."

Despite only being seeded at seven, Davydenko's form has certainly been a surprise. In five previous US Open appearances he has never advanced past the third round and today's match is only his second ever grand slam semi.

His brutal demolition of Andy Murray was followed by an epic five-set win over Tommy Haas in the quarter-finals. Both matches showed a player capable of going all the way to the final.

His opponent will take some beating. Federer is one of the greatest players ever and has won the last two US Open titles, four straight Wimbledon titles, two out of the last three Australian Open titles and finished runner-up at Roland Garros earlier this year.

James Blake - number five seed - provided him with his first serious test in the quarters, so there is a theory that Federer may be in the 'comfort zone'.

Given his extraordinary dedication and drive to succeed, that may be wishful thinking on the part of those who want to see a different name on the trophy this year.

The chances of that happening, in his own mind at least, are slim. "I think I have to have great variety in my game and try to play aggressive. Serve well. Make it easy for myself.

"The whole season's been my best by far, I think, because I've been in all the major finals, plus now here I'm back in the semi-finals. I couldn't be more happy."