Federer aims at another US Open after 50th career trophy

Victory over James Blake 6-1, 6-4 in 65 minutes meant that the world number one claimed his 50th career trophy. He beat Andy Roddick for the Cincinnati title in 2005.

 "It was a great week. I was very happy, and I'm obviously very excited going into the US Open," said Federer, who rebounded after losing to Novak Djokovic in last week's Montreal final.

 The Swiss superstar's 11 career Grand Slam titles put him within view of the all-time mark of 14 majors held by Pete Sampras.

 Federer moved to 12-1 in finals played in the United States, his only defeat coming against Andre Agassi in 2002 in Miami.

 He started Sunday's match by firing two aces and ended the contest with his ninth ace. In between, he fought off five break points.

 "I'm confident going into the Open. I want to try and keep the rhythm and go match by match," said Federer, now 45-6 with five titles this season.

 "You need to get ready mentally for best-of-five-set matches. The good thing is that I know how to win it. I know how to prepare. I have the right frame of mind."

   Federer has beaten Blake in every one of their seven matches, dropping just one set along the way.

 Federer won his 40th career title in August 2006 in Toronto and took just 53 weeks to reach the 50th. His first career title was in February 2001 in Milan.

 "My level lifted through the week. It always felt uphill," said Federer.

 "James goes for a bit more and misses more. It's quite simple how you have to play against him. I hit a good ball and served well today. I'm very, very happy."

   Blake admitted that he had few chances but painted a brighter picture after overcoming an abdominal injury, which forced him out of last week's Montreal event.

 "It feels good to get back on American hard courts. My results this summer haven't shown it yet, but now that I'm healthy, I feel great," he said.

 "Everything felt good until I ran into Roger. Fifty titles is pretty good." dpa