Indian Wells, Mar 22: Eight-times grand slam champion Agassi broke Federer to 3-2 when the Swiss double faulted and won the first set when he ripped a backhand crosscourt winner. But in the second set Federer began to control the court with his devastating forehand and dug his way into Agassi's service games. Federer broke Agassi to 4-1 by forcing a forehand error and won the set when the American made a mistake on his backhand. Both men raised their levels in a spectacular third set, where Agassi fought off three break points in the opening game.
The American also fought off another break point in the fifth game and pressed the Swiss with Federer serving at 3-4.


Agassi held two break points but Federer ripped a forehand crosscourt winner and pasted a forehand down the line.


Federer, who is 21-1 this year, then ran off the next two games to reach his first Pacific Life Open final.

Bureau Report