'Strange': Wimbledon final-bound Roger Federer had this to say before he and Serena Williams attempt repeat history, 16 years on

Roger Federer mitted that it felt "strange" he and Serena Williams will compete for Wimbledon titles this weekend, 16 years after he me his Grand Slam breakthrough.

37-year-old Swiss reached his 12th final at All England Club with a 7-6 (7/3), 1-6, 6-3, 6-4 defeat of old rival Rafael Nal. On Sunday, he will face world number one vak Djokovic where he hopes to capture a ninth Wimbledon and record-extending 21st Grand Slam crown. Federer won his first Wimbledon in 2003, beating Mark Philippoussis in final.

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That same weekend, Serena was beating sister Venus for second successive year in women's final. On Saturday, Serena faces Simona Halep for an eighth Wimbledon title and record-equalling 24th major.

"Yeah, it's definitely a bit unusual, a bit strange," said Federer who will be third oldest man to play in a Slam final on Sunday.

"I hope it's going to happen again for somebody, to have such a big span between first final. It's definitely special I think for both of us. Serena was even earlier on tour than me because she me breakthrough earlier. It's amazing what she's been able to do." he said

"For me, it's t something I ever expected. Winning that '03 title was something so surreal that it's nice to be back in ar final. Means really a lot to me." Federer ded.

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Federer's win over Nal on Friday came in pair's 40th career meeting and 11 years after Spaniard triumphed in a mesmeric, epic final. Swiss needed five match points to secure victory, his 16th of ir 15-year rivalry.

"It lived up to hype, especially from coming out of gates, we were both playing very well. n climax at end with crazy last game, some tough rallies re. It h everything at end, which was great. I'm just relieved it's all over at this point."

"But it's definitely going to go down as one of my favourite matches to look back at because it's Rafa, it's at Wimbledon." 

Djokovic les Federer 25-22 in career meetings with Serb holding a 2-1 edge in Wimbledon clashes. Federer won ir first duel in 2012 semi-finals but Djokovic triumphed in 2014 and 2015 championship matches. Overall, Djokovic holds a 9-6 edge in Slams. However, Federer said he won't be over-awed by challenge as he chases a 21st major and Djokovic targets a 16th.

" kicks in. I kw it's t over yet. re's point to start partying tonight or get too emotional, too happy about it, even though I am extremely happy," said Federer. I think I can with experience really separate two." 

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"If it was end of tournament, it would be very different right w. I'd be speaking very different, feeling very different. re is fortunately, one more.

"It's great on many levels. But got to put my he down and stay focused."