Roger Federer won the Gerry Weber Open for eighth time, beating his Italian opponent Andreas Seppi in straight sets in the summit clash at Halle.
Roger Federer is all set for Wimbledon and he showed that defeating the 45th-ranked Andreas Seppi of Italy, 7-6 (1), 6-4, on Sunday, June 21 in Halle, Germany, claiming his record eighth Gerry Weber Open title.
Though Federer did not reproduce the free-flowing tennis of previous rounds, he dug deep to win big points, breaking Steppi for the first time at the fifth attempt in the conclusive moment of his 10th Halle final.
Federer said, "Of course it's a special moment for me, to win here for the eighth time before Wimbledon. It doesn't happen without making an impression."
Winner of 17 Grand Slam singles titles, Federer sealed his 15th title from 20 finals on grass and his 86th career title from 130 finals overall. With eight titles, Lleyton Hewitt is next on grass. Russia's Yevgeny Kafelnikov is next with three, according to reports on ESPN.
Federer said he was happy with his play.
"This week has been great when I look at the whole thing. I don't think I was broken in the last four matches I played," he said. "It gives me confidence in the crucial moments to know my game was right there."
The win on grass comes ahead of Wimbledon on June 29, when the Swiss will launch his bid for an eight title at the All England Club, BBC noted.
"2013 was difficult, 2014 was better and now 2015 after this week is even better and I hope I can keep it up," Federer said.
Seppi was in the final after Kei Nishikori withdrew from their semifinal citing a calf injury, and Gael Monfils pulled out of the quarterfinal with a knee problem.
In the first set, Seppi missed three break points, including two set points that Federer defended with two consecutive aces.
The world no. 2 took his five set points in the tiebreaker and Seppi missed another break point chance early in the second when he hit a return into the net.
Federer's first break opportunity came at 4-3 in the second set, however Seppi won all three to level. Though it seemed only a matter of time, before Federer made the only break, which was enough for the title.
Seppi said, "He played better at the decisive moments and deserved to win in the end," further adding, "I'll take some good memories with me."
After wins at Brisbane, Dubai and Istanbul, it's Federer's fourth title of the season. Moreover, it's a timely boost for Wimbledon just eight days before the tournament begins.
Federer said, "I think one big secret on grass is when to hit which shot and playing the score the right way."
"You might be playing perfect but then you take a wrong decision and grass makes you pay for it all," he added.
Back in 2010 Federer lost against Lleyton Hewittin in the final at Halle, and against Tommy Haas in 2012. With this win, Federer's tally of overall titles on the grass-court has increased to 15.
