Federer into last four in Montreal

 

Originally published on 11/08/17 00:00

The 36-year-old performed well below his usual high standards in his third round success over David Ferrer but he was much improved against his latest Spanish opponent.

The highest ranked player left in the competition remains the overwhelming favourite to lift the trophy on Sunday and Robin Haase will take on the Swiss for a spot in the championship match.

“Yesterday, I struggled against Ferrer early on, so today was better,” said Federer. “I was more committed and a step further in, adjusting my position slightly and realising the ball does fly a lot."

Haase reached the biggest semi-final of his 12-year career as he recovered from a set down to take out Diego Schwartzman 4-6 6-3 6-3.

"I'm really happy," said the Dutchman after his landmark victory. "I’ve played a lot of good matches, especially yesterday against Dimitrov and it's tough to come back and play that same level. I didn't {today}, but I managed to win because I kept fighting."

Bautista Agut is a workhorse who has maximised his talent but he was rarely comfortable against his illustrious opponent. Federer’s variety and willingness to advance into the forecourt unsettled the Spaniard and the 29-year-old failed to contain the 19-time major winner as the opener progressed.

There was a minor hiccup for Federer as the players traded breaks at the start of the second set – but he quickly reestablished control. Bautista Agut sent an attempted lob beyond the baseline to slip a break behind in the third game and he was unable to mount a comeback.

Federer now has an opportunity to reach world No.1 again. If the Wimbledon champion wins the title in Canada and matches or surpasses Rafael Nadal's result in Cincinnati next week, then top spot will be his.

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