Federer Conquers Rotterdam

Making his first appearance in Rotterdam since winning the title in 2005, Roger Federer was slow of the blocks, struggling throughout the week. His toughest test came in the semifinals, where a rejuvenated Nikolay Davydenko showed some vintage display, dictating the first half of the dispute. Nevertheless, Federer recovered in time, coming back from 1-3 down in the second set to ensure a hard fought 4-6,6-3,6-4 victory.

It was a completely different story in the final though, the Swiss stepping up his game when it mattered most. Facing impressive Argentinean Juan Martin del Potro, who famously beaten him in the 2009 US Open final, Federer brought about all his magic. Even though he cruised in all his matches prior to this one, Del Potro was slow from the get-go, losing the first set 6-1. He never quite managed to come back, as a single break proved enough for Roger to win 6-1,6-4. The success marks his first title of 2012 and his 71st overall.

The victory comes in a crucial moment for the Swiss, who thus shakes off the recent disappointments in Melbourne and the Davis Cup.
Federer's next stop is Dubai, where he lost the two latest finals to Novak Djokovic, while Juan Martin will continue his European journey in Marseille.

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