Federer in semis

Indian Wells, March 16

Defending champ Roger Federer equalled his best start to a season with a 7-5 6-1 win over Chung Hyeong to book his spot in the semifinals of the Indian Wells Masters. 

Federer, who is seeking a record sixth Indian Wells title, extended his win streak to 16 straight matches, matching the start he had to the 2006 ATP calendar season. In the semifinals, Federer will face Croatian Borna Coric who outlasted seventh seeded Kevin Anderson 2-6 6-4 7-6 (7/3). 

Federer won 70 percent of his first serve points, had just one double fault and broke Chung’s serve four times in the one hour, 23 minute main stadium match. He clinched the victory on the second match point when he blasted his 12th and final ace of the contest. 

Former world No. 2 Tommy Haas announced his retirement from the ATP Tour on Thursday. “I consider myself extremely fortunate that I was able play professional tennis for a living for more than two decades,” Haas, 39, said.

Venus beats Navarro 

Venus Williams reached semifinals for the first time since 2001 by routing Carla Suarez Navarro of Spain 6-3 6-2. Russia’s Daria Kasatkina brushed aside Angelique Kerber 6-0 6-2 to reach the semifinals. — Agencies