David Nalbandian completed a sensational week in Spain by beating Roger Federer in the final of the Madrid Masters.
World number 25 back to his best in Madrid
Unseeded Argentine David Nalbandian completed an astonishing week by beating Roger Federer in the final of the Madrid Masters.
Nalbandian, who defeated second and third seeds Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic to reach the final, recovered from a disastrous start to beat the defending champion 1-6 6-3 6-3.
Nalbandian's heavy groundstrokes forced the Swiss ace into an uncharacteristic amount of unforced errors, of which 38 came from Federer's racquet.
It marks a sensational return for the former world number three, who suffered a torrid year through injury but has seen his fortunes improve after hooking up with new coach Hernan Gumy in the summer.
Hit back
Federer looked all set for an easy victory after breaking his opponent's serve in the fourth and sixth games.
But Nalbandian immediately hit back in the second set, breaking Federer for the first time this week and holding his serve despite huge pressure.
And it was Nalbandian again who forced the errors in the decider, Federer sending two forehands long to allow the break in the third game - and once more the Argentine's serve held up to earn him a famous win.
Defeat for Federer was his first on an indoor hardcourt since Nalbandian got the better of him in the Masters Cup two years ago - the only other time the Argentine has beaten the world number one in nine matches.
Focused
"I was very focused, knowing I'd have to play incredibly to win and everything went right for me," said Nalbandian.
"It was a big boost for me to beat so many good players here this week."
Federer commented: "I guess when you beat Nadal and Djokovic back-to-back you come into the final feeling better than ever.
"It was a pity I couldn't stop him today.
"He played well and came back strong and he was the better player all in all."
