Roger Federer v Milos Raonic - Wimbledon 2014 match preview

A look ahead to the semi-final match in the men's singles

Milos Raonic has never progressed beyond the fourth round at Wimbledon before and never beaten Federer (Getty Images)

With the Wimbledon title in his sight Federer only has two steps left, before he can claim a record eighth title. The Swiss maestro may never have a better chance of claiming his eighth title, as defending champion, Andy Murray, and world No 1, Rafael Nadal, have already been eliminated.

At six foot five inches, Raonic provides a rather steep step for Federer to climb if he wants to make it to another Wimbledon final. The 23-year-old has become the first Canadian player to reach the Wimbledon semi-finals since 1908.

Federer looks in fine form this year, having only dropped one set on his way to the semi-final, and only losing seven matches so far this year. Playing in his 15 Wimbledon, Federer will have a significant metal edge when it comes to experience.

Raonic will count on his booming serve to keep him in the match with an opponent that he has never beaten. Winning 88% of his first serve points, Raonic has been considered to have one of the greatest serves on tour.

The winner will meet Novak Djokovic or Grigor Dimitrov next in the final.

PAST MEETINGS…

2013- Australian Open (Hard) Federer won 6-4 7-6 6-2

2012- Halle (Grass) Federer won 6-7 6-4 7-6

2012- Madrid (Clay) Federer won 4-6 7-5 7-6

2012- Indian Wells (Hard) Federer won 6-7 6-2 6-4

 

STATS…

Raonic has the second fastest serve of the championships at 141 mph, as well as the most aces in the tournament with 147.

Raonic has won 275 out of 313 first serves (88%), the highest at Wimbledon this year

Federer has won 957 matches compared to the 144 Raonic has won; he has also won 15 more matches than the Canadian this year.

A win at Wimbledon this year will be Federer’s 18 grand slam title, and Raonic’s first.

ODDS…

Raonic to win 3.5

Federer to win 1.39