Throwback: Roger Federer dethrones Novak Djokovic in Dubai 2014

Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic were the players to beat in Dubai between 2003-2013, winning nine of 11 titles in the desert for complete domination.

Federer won three consecutive titles between 2003-2005 before Rafael Nadal halted his streak in the final in 2006. Novak Djokovic entered the winning list in 2009 and rattled off four titles in five years, intercepted by Federer, who regained the throne in 2012. On February 28, 2014, two great champions met in the semi-final, and Federer scored a 3-6, 6-3, 6-2 victory in an hour and 46 minutes, dethroning Djokovic and reaching his ninth final in the desert.

It was Roger's first victory over Novak since Cincinnati 2012, earning it after hitting more winners and fewer unforced errors. The Swiss lost 24 points in 13 service games and saved five out of six break chances to keep the pressure on the other side. He broke Novak thrice from seven opportunities, staying calm after the opener to seal the deal and remain on the title course. Djokovic made a strong start and grabbed a break in game two for an early advantage. Serving for the set at 5-3, the Serb landed an ace to clinch it in 35 minutes, hoping for more in the rest of the clash.

Federer repelled a break point at 2-2 in set number two with a backhand down the line winner, earning a boost and painting a similar shot in the next game to secure a break and open a 4-2 gap. Serving for the set, Roger delivered a quick hold in game nine to level the overall score and grab momentum ahead of the decider. The Swiss broke at the beginning of the third set following the Serb's double fault and saved two break points in the next one to cement the lead and move closer to the finish line. Roger seized another break at 3-1 and erased two break points at 5-2 to seal the deal and advance into the final.