How to beat the leading man in five easy lessons

Andy Murray’s task today is simple enough: he must beat the man on the other side of the net and a place in Sunday’s Wimbledon final will await him. The man standing in his way, though, is Rafael Nadal, and Murray has already lost twice to the Spaniard at Wimbledon. Here, we look at how Nadal can be beaten, with post-match insights from some of his recent conquerors.

Don’t change the game plan

Roger Federer – ATP World Tour Finals final, Nov 2010. “I just really tried to focus harder on my first serves to make sure I made them. Just focus even more on doing the right things. Then I knew that I could come through.”

Hope he has an off day

Nikolay Davydenko – Qatar Open semi-final, Jan 2011. “He was not in his best form. Normally he’s much tougher and he’s stronger – physically. He was completely tired and fighting for points.”

Take advantage of injury

David Ferrer – Australian Open quarter-final, Jan 2011. “I knew about his physical problem (a hamstring injury) I didn’t change my plan. I was just focused on my game. Always with Rafa I need to play very aggressively.”

When you have him cornered, finish him off

Novak Djokovic – Indian Wells final, Mar 2011. “It was just a question of momentum. I felt that this is the time when I had to use my opportunity and step in and be more aggressive.”

Play the perfect match

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga – AEGON Championships quarter-final, June 2011. “It was close to my best tennis – it had to be to beat Rafa.”