Federer defeats Djokovic to reach the ATP Finals semifinals.

The Swiss player defeated the world number one in two sets, 7-5, 6-2, in the second match of the Stan Smith group on November 17.

Sports fans on the night of November 17th turned their attention to London for two notable matches. At Wembley National Stadium, England hosted France in a symbolic friendly following Friday's tragedy in Paris. 45 km away at the O2 Arena, tennis fans focused on the clash between world number one, undefeated Novak Djokovic, and tennis legend Roger Federer.

Federer (right) ended Djokovic's winning streak. Photo: KQ.

Federer had beaten Djokovic twice in six encounters in 2015. However, at the moment, defeating the Serbian player is not easy, as he is in excellent form. Before their meeting at the ATP World Tour Finals last night, Djokovic had a streak of 15 consecutive wins at the year-end tournament and a recent streak of 23 consecutive wins. The last player to beat Djokovic was also Federer, in the Cincinnati final. Djokovic's record was broken by the 34-year-old, who appeared in London sporting a new beard. Shedding his polished look and embracing a wild, free spirit may have contributed to the triumphant night for the father of four.

Federer not only won, but won very quickly: in just 77 minutes across two sets. His strong serve and frequent net play helped the world number three achieve a swift victory. He recorded six aces, had a 75% first-serve winning percentage, and secured four breaks out of eight opportunities. The first set was quite intense, with both players serving well. Federer ultimately took the lead with a 7-5 victory. He carried that confidence into the second set, hitting 19 winners and finishing with a 6-2 score.

"I didn't play any crazy tactics today. It was completely direct confrontation, just like I've done against him in our past encounters," Federer said. "Winning the opening set obviously gives you an advantage, and the important thing is that I won it again in the second set, as quickly as possible."

It's rare for Djokovic to drop in form like this, with his unforced errors far exceeding his winners (22 and 12). Break opportunities were also scarce, with only three chances, and he successfully converted one.

"You always have days like this, when you're not at your best," Djokovic shared. "I have credit to Federer. He controls the ball speed very well, uses a lot of different shots. His slice and spin shots are very clever. I also made a lot of mistakes and handed the victory to him. That's sports, there are days you lose. But this is a round-robin tournament, so I still have a chance to go further."

Federer rarely sports a beard when competing. Photo: KQ.

Having won both of his first two matches, Federer secured his place in the ATP Finals semi-finals. Djokovic still has a chance to defend his title if he wins his final match against Tomas Berdych. The Czech player has lost both of his first two matches, against Federer and then Kei Nishikori.

According to VNE