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Straights sets for Djokovic

Image: Novak Djokovic: Winner of the Abu Dhabi exhibition tournament

Novak Djokovic eased past David Ferrer 6-2 6-1 to win the World Tennis Championship exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi.

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World number one ends the year with another win

Novak Djokovic eased past David Ferrer 6-2 6-1 to win the World Tennis Championship exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. Ferrer caused a minor upset by defeating his Spanish compatriot Rafael Nadal in the semi-finals. But he could do nothing to halt the irrepressible Djokovic, who broke his serve on five occasions and secured 3-0 leads in both sets. "It's always great to win a title. This is the best way to start the 2012 season," the world number one said. "I must say I'm really happy with the way I'm playing. Playing against the top players in the world in this way gives me a lot of confidence." Earlier, Nadal defeated Roger Federer 6-1 7-5 to clinch third place. Still nursing a sore shoulder, the Spaniard looked in good form against his old foe, who was also well-beaten by Djokovic on Friday. Nadal raced into a 3-0 lead and was never seriously threatened thereafter, a trademark blistering forehand into the corner ending matters.

Positive

"It was a positive match," said Nadal, who plans to take a break after the Australian Open to rest his shoulder. "I played better than yesterday and that was the most important thing." Federer downplayed his performances this week, insisting he is looking forward to the new season. "It's about getting ready and feeling fine out there and enjoying a great atmosphere here and having the chance to play world class players," Federer said. "Obviously, I could tell Novak and Rafa are playing really well. That is not a surprise to me. I expected them to be in good shape for next year and they proved that to me this weekend."

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