• ATP World Tour Finals

Federer rips Murray apart in London

Andy Murray was comprehensively outplayed by Roger Federer © Getty Images

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Day Three Gallery

Roger Federer produced a tennis masterclass to all but secure his place in the semi-finals for the seventh time in eight years with a 6-4 6-2 victory over Andy Murray.

Having won his opening two matches in straight sets, Federer is virtually guaranteed to qualify for the semi-finals of the year-end event after breezing past the home favourite.

Going into the match Murray had both of his last two meetings against Federer, and with home advantage in his favour, the Scot was heavily tipped to upset the world No. 2.

The pair met in the group stages of the ATP World Tour Finals in London last year, where Murray won the opening set before Federer battled back to win in three, but this time Murray never had even the faintest sniff of victory, as he was comprehensively outplayed by Federer, whose tactical decision to receive first paid dividends.

Murray was immediately under pressure, and was forced to save break point on his opening service game. After an easy hold for Federer, Murray crumbled under the incessant pressure and Federer grabbed his chance to move clear, and never looked in danger of surrendering his advantage.

Murray is one of the best returners in the game, but he had little response to Federer, who dropped just eight points on serve as he dominated the match from start to finish. Just as Murray looked like he could find a way back into the second set after going 30-0 up on Federer's serve, the Swiss closed him out immediately.

It was a dominant display from the 16-time grand slam champion, who converted 14 points of 17 attempts at the net, while Murray was left to rue 26 unforced errors.

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