15.05.2009

ATP - SEMIS IN MADRID

Roger advanced to the semi-finals of the Madrid Open, battling past Andy Roddick 7-5, 6-7(5), 6-1 today.

It was Roger's first career meeting with Andy Roddick on clay; he has now improved improved his record against the American to 18 wins and two defeats. Roddick, who received a walkover after Nikolay Davydenko had to withdraw due to a leg injury, broke in the second game to take a 2-0 lead. But that was just reason enough for Roger to break right back and hold for 2-2. He broke once more later in the 11th game and served out the set. Roger never managed to take the lead in the second set despite four break balls, eventually losing the tie-break after an initial 2-0 lead. Roger pushed to a higher gear in the last set, dominating the set entirely and showing some stunning tennis.

Roger will face the winner of the quarter-final between fourth seed Andy Murray and fifth seed Juan Martin Del Potro.