Monday, May 20, 2013

Latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Midlands

Federer beats Tsonga to reach Qatar Open final
Posted: 01.07.2011 at 12:07 PM
0
Roger Federer celebrates as he defeats Jo-Wilfried Tsonga during their semifinal match at Qatar ATP Open Tennis.  / AP photo
Photo

DOHA, Qatar (AP) — Two-time champion Roger Federer reached the final of the Qatar Open by beating third-seeded Jo-Wilfried Tsonga of France 6-3, 7-6 (2) Friday.

Federer, who has yet to drop a set at the Khalifa Tennis Complex this week, could face Rafael Nadal in Sunday's final. The top-ranked Spaniard was to play Nikolay Davydenko later Friday.

"I have played good tennis this week so whoever I play against, I am sure it will be a good match," the 16-time Grand Slam champion said. "I have played two finals here so I have the experience."

Federer improved his record to 22-3 in Doha. He won the title in 2005 and '06.

Although the second-seeded Federer was pushed to a tiebreaker in the second set, he said his early first-set break set the tone for the match.

"It was a crucial service break for me. That set me up nicely for the remainder of the match," Federer said. "The second set was more competitive as I was serving really well."

Federer broke Tsonga in the second game of the first set with well-placed returns from the baseline as Tsonga struggled for rhythm. In the tiebreaker, the two were even at 2-all before Federer won the final five points.

"Obviously, I am excited to have reached another final," Federer said. "This sure has been a great week and I am looking forward to my next match."

Popular Stories
Thumbnail
Brett Parker murder trial resumes Monday
Yesterday at 3:16 PM  |  1 comment
Thumbnail
Who won the Powerball Jackpot?
Yesterday at 3:22 PM  |  1 comment
Thumbnail
Miss South Carolina USA hoping to bring crown to Palmetto State
Zoheb Hassanali  |  Yesterday at 5:52 PM
Follow Midlands Connect
Get news and weather notifications on your phone by downloading the iPhone or Android app below
Sign up to get alerts and updates for breaking news, severe weather, and deals:
submit
ADVERTISEMENT
Special Features
MoneyWACH
Financial tips & tricks from Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union
Mission Midlands
A program from the Oliver Gospel Mission
MOJO Gallery
View and share your pictures from around the Midlands
ADVERTISEMENT