Ruthless Federer downs Nishikori

RogerFederer

The Swiss, a six-time winner of the season-ending event, needed little more than an hour to overcome the US Open runner-up at the O2 Arena to maintain his perfect start in Group B.

Both men came into the clash having won their opening matches, but Federer proved too strong for the Japanese as the world number two took another step towards the semi-finals.

Nishikori had put in a strong performance to beat Andy Murray 6-4 6-4 on Sunday, but he was unable to repeat that performance against Federer.

After saving two break points in game three of the opening set, the 17-time major winner got his nose in front in the next, a blistering forehand winner moving him into a 3-1 lead.

Nishikori, ranked fifth in the world, was forced to save another break point in his next service game, but he was unable to make any inroads on the Federer serve.

Another unerring forehand wrapped up the opening set for the 33-year-old, who looked in complete control.

Federer exerted early pressure on his opponent once again in the second set, forcing two break points in game three.

Nishikori was able to rescue one of those thanks to a misplaced backhand from Federer, but the respite was brief for the Japanese, who sent a forehand long to fall 2-1 behind.

A double fault then handed Federer a 5-2 lead and, despite falling to 0-30 in the next game, he recovered strongly and sealed victory as Nishikori sent a service return into the net.

Federer's place in the last four will be assured if Milos Raonic defeats Murray later on Tuesday, or if the Briton wins in three sets.

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