Federer, Safin, Haas in ATP Halle Semifinals

Also into the semifinals in straight sets were (2) Marat Safin (d. O.Rochus), (4) Guillermo Canas (d. Schuettler), and homecountry favorite (7) Tommy Haas (d. (WC) Ferrero).

"It's the first time for a few matches I didn't lose my serve," Federer said. "I would really like to play against Tommy (Haas) once again, because we didn't meet each other on the court for a long time. The last match was in Paris-Bercy in 2002 before his long period of injury, I remember, and that was a very important match for me, because by winning this match I was able to join the Masters (Cup) in Shanghai."

Haas was also looking forward to his semifinal match against the Swiss.

"Last time we played was actually my last match before my first injury in 2002, so this is something special for me, because ever since I was off he overtook the tennis world and was playing some unbelievable tennis," Haas said. "I have nothing to lose against him, of course he's the favorite, so I'll go out and try to show my best tennis."

Federer and Haas are tied at 2-2 in their career head-to-head meetings, while Safin leads Canas 3-2 in their meetings.

Haas, Safin and Canas have never won a grasscourt title.

The team of T.Johansson/Safin received a walkover in their doubles semifinal, and Sunday will face the winner of Saturday's (1) Bhupathi/Woodbridge vs. Allegro/Federer semifinal.