rogerfederer.com - Roger defeats Nadal and books |final spot

Roger defeats Nadal and books |final spot

Roger won the 28th encounter with Rafael Nadal 6-3, 6-4 and will now play John Isner in Sunday's final of the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells.

The match started nearly three hours late because of rain, conditions were very windy and temperatures plunged. "I had a good day. It was a great match in tough conditions," Roger said. "It was so difficult but man I couldn't be more happy. I played amazing. I didn't expect myself to play so well, and this is sometimes when you can pull off the biggest wins of your career. That's where I'm happy I gave myself a chance this week."

Roger was extremely efficient, converting the three break-points he had right upon the first attempt. He was even serving for victory at 5-2 in the second set when Nadal broke his serve. But only two games and a rain-delay later he made everything clear with a final ace.

Roger will play John Isner in Sunday's final. He leads the head-to-head against the American 2-1. Roger had lost the last Davis Cup match on clay in Switzerland just a few weeks ago.