Tennis: Federer to play Nadal in Dubai Open final

DUBAI - Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, the top two tennis players in the world, will clash for the first time since the French Open semifinals in the Dubai Open final tomorrow.

Spain's Nadal, who won the Roland Garros clash in four sets before lifting his first grand slam crown, beat Rainer Schuettler of Germany 6-4 6-2 while Federer eased past Mikhail Youzhny of Russia 6-2 6-3.

Switzerland's Federer has won both his tournaments this year, including the Australian Open.

Nadal, who won 11 titles last year, is playing only his second tournament since recovering from a career-threatening foot injury.

- REUTERS