Cup of cheer for Federer

Wimbledon champion Roger Federer closed the ATP Tour season in style when storming to victory in the Tennis Masters Cup final in Houston by beating Andre Agassi 6-3 6-0 6-4.

The 22-year-old Swiss ace secured his fifth straight win of the week and also moved up to number two in the world rankings behind his semi-final victim Andy Roddick.

At 33, Agassi was hoping to become the oldest player to win the season-ending tournament but he just could not live with Federer’s superior backcourt play.

Federer said: “This whole week has been fantastic. I thought I was in the toughest group, with the toughest opponents, but I came out winning each match.

“I’d like to thank everybody involved in this tournament for making it work, I really had a great time.

“This Masters Cup means very much to me and I really hope I’ll be able to come back next year and defend my title.”

Australian Open winner Agassi, playing in his first event since losing in the US Open semi-finals, had also been beaten by Federer in the group stage of this tournament.

Agassi, who won this equivalent event in Frankfurt 13 years ago, added: “I’d just like to congratulate Roger on not just a great match today but also great tennis all week.

“He is a deserved winner and an inspiration to watch. The way he moves and plays is superb, and he is going to get even better next year.”