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Federer failed to be deterred by two rain
delays(Agencies) |
World number one Roger Federer has cruised to his
second successive Masters Cup title after defeating Lleyton Hewitt 6-3 6-2
in Houston.
Thunder, lightning and heavy rain delayed the match by three hours but
Federer stormed into a 5-2 lead in the first set as play finally started.
Another downpour brought the players off but Hewitt failed to match
Federer's game on their return.
It was the Swiss star's 13th final win in a row - an Open era record.
Federer collected a $1.52m prize for his victory - his 11th title of
the season, including the Wimbledon, US and Australian Open titles.
"It's just an unbelievable end to a fantastic
season for me," said the 23-year-old, who had suffered a torn left thigh
muscle last month.
"I was injured and came back strong and was able to win this title.
It's almost too much to ask for.
"I can leave on vacation now with a great feeling and with great
memories. My priorities now are to defend my Wimbledon title and to defend
my number one ranking."
Organisers had earlier warned the final could be moved to Monday due to
the dire conditions but, as the weather cleared, they opted to reduce the
final from a five-set contest to a three-set one.
Federer got off to an electric start with a game to love before
breaking Hewitt's opening service game.
He then kept ahead at 5-2 before a 78-minute rain
delay. When the players returned to court, he promptly rounded off
the set.
The players were more closely matched in the second set until Federer
broke Hewitt's serve in the fifth game.
After that he conceded just four more points and sealed the title as
Hewitt struck a forehand into the net.
Hewitt, who has now lost six times in a row to Federer, said: "I'd like
to congratulate Roger not only for winning the tournament but for the way
he has played all year.
"He has really cleaned me up this year. I'll go back to the drawing
board and hopefully I can get him next year."
(Agencies) | 
Updated: 2004-11-22 15:42