Australian Open 2012 Semifinals: Murray's Valiant Effort Thwarted by Djokovic

Few expected Andy Murray to give Novak Djokovic a tough time, but he made the world's No. 1 player work hard in the 2012 Australian Open semifinals.

Unfortunately for Murray, Djokovic took over late in the match, winning 6-3, 3-6, 6-7 (4-7), 6-1, 7-5. Now Djokovic will face Rafael Nadal in the finals.  

It was a superb effort by Murray, as many thought this would be an easy victory for Djokovic just like last year's Australian Open Final. Djokovic beat Murray in straight sets, giving the fans a boring finals match. 

However, this time around, fans were blessed with an epic semifinals match between the two. 

Even though he lost, Murray gets a solid boost of confidence knowing he went toe to toe with Djokovic, giving him his toughest challenge of the tournament. 

Since this is the first Grand Slam event of the year, starting strong will do wonders for the remainder of the year. However, an early exit could be a sign that 2012 is going to be rough. 

Of course, it also means that tennis player just has to work hard to get back to the top. 

That isn't something Murray has to worry about, though, as he gave it his all against Djokovic. He looked as though he might have the match in the bag after winning two straight sets, but Djokovic just would not be denied. 

After all, Djokovic is the best player in the world right now, so Murray had to know going in that he would never be safe even if he had the lead.

Credit Djokovic for fighting back, but give two thumbs up for Murray defying his critics and making Djokovic work the hardest he's had to in quite some time. 

Murray can use this intense match as motivation for the future Grand Slam events this season. He gave it his all, but Djokovic proved late why he is the best of the best.