Roger Federer reveals cunning tactics used to beat Guido Pella at Stuttgart Open
ROGER FEDERER has revealed the tactics he used to beat Guido Pella at the Stuttgart Open this afternoon.
Federer was playing just his second game back following a two-month break he took over the clay-court season.
And the Swiss star showed no sign of rustiness as he beat his Argentine opponent 6-4, 6-4.
The win sets up a stunning semi-final clash with Australian Nick Kyrgios tomorrow after he beat Feliciano Lopez over three sets.
But to get past Pella in the quarter-finals, Federer went out with the mentality to try and make every point as short as possible - and it worked a dream.
I'm happy to have caught some rhythm today
"I think I kept control,” Federer said.
“I have taken a good level and I have not given Guido many opportunities in my service shifts. Except in the last two maybe.
"I'm happy to have caught some rhythm today.
"I was able to stay aggressive. I wanted to shorten the points and see what happened.
“I think it was a good decision."
Federer knows he can regain the world No 1 ranking if he beats Kyrgios in the last four.
The winner will then face either Milos Raonic or Lucas Pouille in the final.