Halle Open: Federer's winning run continues, reaches semi-final

Twenty-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer handed over a crushing defeat to his Australian Opponent Matthew Abden here on Friday.

In a hard-fought battle, the 36-year-old defeated his Australian rival in straight sets 7-6, 7-5 to enter the semi-final of the Halle Open.

After a firm beginning, defending champion stumbled a little in the first set which went on till tie-breaker. But soon he gained the momentum and succeeded in booking a semi-final berth for himself.

With this win, Federer extended his winning streak on the grass-court to 19 matches.

Federer, who recently won his 98th title by defeating his Canadian opponent Milos Raonic in straight sets in the finals of Stuttgart Open, is spending his second consecutive week on the grass court in the build-up to the third major of the season, that is, Wimbledon.

The nine-time Halle Open champion, who recently climbed up to the top ranking for the sixth time in his career, will have to defend the Halle title if he wants to retain the top position.

The Swiss player will now look to continue his winning momentum in the semi-final match scheduled to happen on June 23.