Roger Federer advanced into the Dubai quarterfinals with a routine 6-3, 6-4 win over Marcel Granollers in just over hour.
The Swiss Maestro broke in the sixth game of the first set and held out to take it without much trouble. The second set was slightly more competitive but Roger broke in the fifth game and held out once again to win the match without too many hiccups. He saved a few break points in the second set but was too much for the Spaniard to handle.
Interestingly enough, Roger also faced Granollers two years ago in the second round and won 6-3, 6-4 as well. He was broken in that match though, and he wasn't in this one. He served pretty well and played great off the ground. His backhand was as good as it's been it quite a while and some of the passes he hit off that side were exquisite. Granollers made him many solid returns and passing shots as he attacked the net quite a lot, with volleys being the strong suit of his game. The Spaniard is still in the tournament in doubles with partner Marc Lopez.
Next up is a match against Nikolay Davydenko in the quarters. They just played a month ago in the Australian Open where Fed won easily. The quick Dubai courts suit both players' games better than the Melbourne courts however, and as usual, it should be a good match with many extended clean-hitting baseline rallies. Davydenko is hit and miss these days but he has played well this week and upset Janko Tipsarevic in the 1st round.
Also, watch out for Djokovic vs Seppi, which goes on before Federer vs Davydenko. Seppi went up two sets to love against Novak at the French Open last year and could pose a challenge to the #1. Del Potro and Berdych should get into the semis comfortably as they play Daniel Brands and Dmitry Tursunov respectively.
Until next time....
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