Federer is the last of big four

GRASS-MASTER Roger Federer is the last of the big men left.

While there has been chaos all around him among the top seeds, the seven-time champion has glided into the last four, without dropping a set.

He was expected to be joined by Andy Murray, Rafa Nadal and Novak Djokovic in a blockbuster semi-final line-up.

But they have all been sent packing early, amid injury troubles for all three, to leave Federer the Big Four’s sole survivor.

Federer’s decision to skip the clay-court season to ensure he is fully fit for Wimbledon has paid off.

And a record eighth title for the Swiss star, 35, moved three big steps closer yesterday.

First, defending champion Murray was stunned by Sam Querrey, before Djokovic succumbed to an elbow injury against Tomas Berdych. Then Federer (above) made sure he capitalised on his biggest rivals’ misfortune, in his 100th Wimbledon match, by sweeping away Milos Raonic in straight sets, 6-4 6-2 7-6.

Federer now faces Berdych in his record 12th semi-final tomorrow and said: “I’m much better prepared for Wimbledon this year than last.

“Once you hit 30, you have to look back and think, ‘How much tennis have I played, how much rest did I give my body over the years, how much training have I done?’

“For me, it worked out. Doesn’t mean it’s going to work out for everybody. But sometimes maybe the body and the mind do need a rest.”

On Nadal, Murray and Djokovic, Federer added: “I’m surprised to see them going out. But the other guys are playing well. It still remains a great, great tournament.”