World number one Roger Federer [Images] cruised to his fifth Halle Open title in Germany [Images] on Sunday, beating Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-3, 6-4.
Federer, who was heavily defeated by Rafael Nadal [Images] in the French Open final last weekend, was rarely troubled by his German opponent, extending his winning streak on grass to 59 matches ahead of Wimbledon which starts on June 23.
"I played great tennis all week. I didn't lose my serve once, which I don't think I've ever managed before in a tournament, so it's very special for me, and I'm really pleased about it," Federer told German television.
Federer has traditionally used the Halle tournament as a warm-up for Wimbledon, but skipped the event a year ago after losing to Nadal at Roland Garros.
The Swiss, who also failed to drop a set all week, said he is fit and ready for the third Grand Slam tournament of the year where he aims to break the record he shares with Bjorn Borg of five consecutive wins.
"It's obviously a good omen to win here in Wimbledon, sorry, Halle -- the Wimbledon of Germany," he said, laughing.
© Copyright 2008 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of Reuters content, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters shall not be liable for any errors or delays in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon.
|
Advertisement
Email this Article 
Print this Article