Federer beats Nadal to win 1st season title

Roger Federer finally won his first season title this year. The Swiss World No. 2 outclassed his arch rival and "King of Clay" Rafael Nadal in straight sets to win the Madrid Open, incredibly on clay.

Roger Federer from Switzerland, left, displays his trophy from  Spain's Crown Prince Felipe, right, after winning his match  against Rafael Nadal from Spain, during the Madrid Open Tennis  at the Caja Magica, Madrid, Sunday May 17, 2009.(AP Photo/Daniel Ochoa de Olza)

On Sunday another chapter was written in one of the great tennis rivalries.Rafael Nadal faced Roger Federer for the 20th time, with the Spaniard holding a 13-6 head-to-head advantage.Nadal was in quest to extend his record against Federer. This forhand winner delighted the crowd.

But The Swiss played swiftly and smartly. He hit this drop volley in perfect timing.

And this powerful serve forced Nadal to respond hastely. Federer collected the winner and the first set with ease. 6-4.

Nadal would rally with Federer with powerful baseline shots in the second set. But the Swiss still kept his cool for drop shots, which worked well.