Murray continues dream start to 2009
Andy Murray has a 5-3 record against Andy Roddick, his opponent in the final
Also In The News
|
Andy Murray will lock horns with Roger Federer again after he beat Ukrainian Sergiy Stakhovsky in the quarter-finals of the Qatar Open. |  |
Friday, 09, Jan 2009 10:38
Andy Murray has reached the final of the Qatar Open after beating Roger Federer 6-7 (6/8) 6-2 6-2.
Britain's number one beat the Swiss star for the second time in a week to keep his hopes alive of defending his crown.
The Scot will meet American Andy Roddick in Saturday's final where he will be bidding for his second title of the year after his triumph in Abu Dhabi.
But the 21-year-old will head into the final with a back injury after a tough encounter against Federer.
The former world number one earned the first break in game nine but surrendered his advantage with a double-fault.
After saving a set point, Federer clinched the opener with his trademark passing shots.
The 13-time grand slam winner then set-up three break points in the third game of the second set but Murray fought back to win the game.
Federer's erratic serving continued as he conceded his fourth double fault to gift Murray a break for 4-2. And the Dunblane teenager served out the set to force a decider.
Despite needing treatment on his back, Murray made an explosive start to the third set and broke the Swiss star to lead 3-1.
The Briton continued to be untroubled on his serve and sealed the game
when Federer hit a smash shot into the net.
Murray, who has beaten the 27-year-old in their last four encounters, said he was delighted with his start to 2009.
"He is an awesome player, arguably the greatest player of all time, so I'm happy about my performance today," he said.
Meanwhile, Federer said he was disappointed at surrendering his one-set lead.
"I just couldn't give the knockout punch but it is not a big thing. Andy is a tough player against me. I hope when big matches come, I beat him."