ATP Finals: Federer books semis berth

Swiss tennis maestro Roger Federer stormed into the semi-final of the ongoing ATP Finals tournament after defeating Kevin Anderson of South Africa in the men's singles event here on Friday.

The 37-year-old thrashed Anderson 6-4, 6-3 in the quarter-final clash that lasted 77 minutes.

Getting over the initial setback in the tournament which he had received after losing the opening encounter to Japan's Kei Nishikori, Federer won 68 per cent of second-serve return points against Anderson in the match to emerge victoriously.

The twenty-time Grand Slam champion, with his skilful hitting, broke Anderson four times in the match and did not let him get settled.

If Federer manages to win the ATP finals title, then it would be his 100th tour-level trophy. The player, however, said that he does not want to focus on the numbers right now.

While talking about the milestone, Federer clearly stated that he does not want to let this go into his head as it is likely to create extra pressure. He further admitted that the situation is exciting, for sure.

"Personally, I'm still not thinking of the number, 100. I won't let that get in my head, make me go crazy because it should be something I'm excited about and not something I should feel extra pressure [to earn]," ATP quoted Federer, as saying.

"It's just going to be hard to finish it. I'm happy I gave myself the opportunity. I'm happy that I'm raising my level of play throughout this week. This is what I hope to do. It's exciting to be in this situation now, of course, no doubt," he added.

Meanwhile, world number one Novak Djokovic has already booked his place in the semi-final of the tournament.