Roger Federer reaches Dubai final with ruthless win over Borna Coric
Friday 27 February 2015 17:27, UK
Roger Federer handed out a harsh lesson to Borna Coric as he inflicted a 6-2 6-1 defeat on the teenager in the Dubai Championship semi-finals.
The Croatian had booked his place in the last four with an impressive upset victory over Andy Murray, but he was no match for an in-form Federer, who ruthlessly wrapped up the win inside an hour.
Nerves appeared to affect the teenager in the early stages as he gifted a break to his experienced foe with an overhit forehand.
But the exciting Coric was relishing his duel with the Swiss star and hit back in style, setting up triple break points, with Federer conceding the first on a netted forehand.
This success was short-lived as Federer sternly tested his opponent’s serve and a double fault gifted him a further break for a 4-2 advantage.
Coric still had chances to disrupt the defending champion, but rashly under-hit a return at 30-30 on the Federer serve and soon conceded the opening set.
Firmly in control, Federer piled more pressure on the increasingly erratic Coric, who was broken again following a misplaced backhand and fell 2-0 behind.
The youngster looked in the direction of his coach for advice, but was helpless to prevent Federer from securing his place in yet another final.
Federer told the ATP website: "I can see why he has so far caused difficulties for some of the top guys and he still has a lot of room for improvement in his game.
"He does a really good job for a big guy. It's unbelievable how in the past 10 years we have seen so many big guys moving well from the baseline. I think he returns very well, especially off second serves, and that's such a huge part of today's game, I believe."
