Australian Open Semifinal Repeat On the Cards for Fernando Verdasco

Although compatriot Rafael Nadal ended up lifting the Australian Open trophy last year, Fernando Verdasco was undoubtedly the tournament's success story.

The 26-year-old Spaniard played his part in what was one of the greatest semifinals to grace a Grand Slam tournament, let alone the Australian Open.

In a contest lasting five hours, Verdasco pushed Nadal all the way before succumbing to the world No.1 7-6 4-6 6-7 7-6 4-6 in an epic contest.

Before that semifinal, Verdasco had arguably produced the upset of the tournament in the fourth round, ousting inform British player Andy Murray in five sets.

His performance down under set the tone for what was to be Verdasco's best year on the ATP tour.

The world No. 9 appeared in the latter stages of numerous tournaments, including a quarter-final finish at the US Open, which allowed him to qualify for the season ending ATP World Tour finals in London.

Despite losing all of his round robin matches to Roger Federer, Juan Martin Del Potro, and Andy Murray respectively, Verdasco more than held his own in a group which contained players that have either won a Grand Slam or participated in a final.

Whilst 2009 consolidated Verdasco's status as a top ten player, 2010 maybe the year we see the Spaniard rise to the cream of the crop.

He has already started the year on the right note, winning the Kooyong Classic Exhibition tournament in Melbourne, defeating Jo Wilfred Tsonga in straight sets.

Although Tsonga performed well below par, Verdasco showed terrific signs to suggest another Australian Open semi-final appearance may be on the cards.

The world No. 9 produced a nice repertoire of shots from all corners of the court to subdue Tsonga, casting the Frenchman's game into disarray.

Verdasco's forehand in particular was solid, whilst his positioning at the net was also commendable.

His serve continues to be one of the most reliable on the ATP tour, often producing a soft return for Verdasco to put away.

Like Davydenko, the key to Verdasco's success at the Australian Open will very match hinge on how he performs during the first week.

If he can get past the third round with relative ease, then Verdasco has the game and mentality necessary to replicate his ground breaking run last year.

If not, then you can rest assured the 26 year old will probably take a major scalp with him before his time at the Open is out.