Federer downs Nalbandian to reach Rome final

ROME, May 13 (Reuters) World number one Roger Federer came from a break down in the deciding set to beat David Nalbandian 6-3 3-6 7-6 and reach the Rome Masters final today.

The Swiss, who has failed to win the claycourt tournament in five previous visits, started well but committed a series of unforced errors to surrender the second set before steadying his game to edge out the fourth seed.

Federer reached the Rome final in 2003 but lost to Felix Mantilla.

He will face the winner of the later semi-final between second seed and defending champion Rafael Nadal, unbeaten in his last 51 matches on clay, and Frenchman Gael Monfils.

Reuters SY RN2144