Nalbandian stays sharp indoors, into Paris Masters tennis semis

0 Comments | AFP, November, 2007

PARIS (AFP) — David Nalbandian extended his autumn indoor hot streak into the semi-finals of the Paris Masters but his Friday success was not rewarded with a place at the season-wrapup Masters Cup.

The Argentine who won the year-ender in China in 2005 over Roger Federer outlasted Spaniard David Ferrer 7-6 (7/3), 6-7 (3/7), 6-2 at the Bercy arena in 2hrs 40mins.

Nalbandian defeated Federer last month for the Madrid title in a comeback and handled the Swiss again in Thursday's third round here.

But world number one Federer has his travel plans for the season finale in Shanghai well in hand.

Nalbandian can only rejoice quietly in a job well done after starting a recovery from his current 25th ranking a year after standing third in the world.

The...