Federer, Hewitt Win Through to US Open Final in Straight Sets

The two most dominant players in men's tennis this summer advanced to the final of the US Open Saturday.

Lleyton Hewitt, who has now won 16 matches in a row this summer including titles at Washington and Long Island, took apart the big-serving game of No. 28 seed Joachim "Pim-Pim" Johansson 6-4, 7-5, 6-3. Johansson, who took out defending champ Andy Roddick, found Hewitt's return of serve a much tougher prospect.

Also into the final was world No. 1 Roger Federer, who had no problem with No. 5 seed Tim Henman 6-3, 6-4, 6-4, with the Brit's usual net-charging game leaving the Swiss non-nonplussed.

Hewitt managed his emotions in battling down his sister's boyfriend.

"It was a bit awkward for both of us but we just had to put our professional hats on," said Hewitt, who has not dropped a set during the event. "I've been playing well all through the hardcourt season and there's just one match to go now."

One service break in each set was enough for Hewitt to reach his first US Open final since winning in 2001.

"I have been playing well this whole American summer," Hewitt said. "I have played consistently this whole year and the guys that have beaten me have had to play great tennis."

On facing Hewitt, Federer says he is a much better player than past meetings, with Hewitt leading the career head-to-head 7-5. Federer has won all three of their meetings in 2004, on three different surfaces.

"Mentally and physically I'm more stronger to handle him," Federer said. "In the past, I wasn't. I think that makes a big difference now. I've beaten him, there's no more fear. Really, just respect towards the great player he is and a great competitor. I'm looking forward to it. It's a big occasion for both of us. It's going to be interesting to see."

While Hewitt is the underdog, he is not ready to concede.

"Obviously, playing Roger, the No. 1 player in the world, I'm going to have to play some great tennis to get on top of him," Hewitt said. "But I feel like I'm playing well at the moment, and I give myself a good chance."

Federer is attempting to become the first player since Mats Wilander in 1988 to win three slam titles in one year.