Roger Federer defeated Gilles Simon in three sets, 7-6 4-6 6-4, in the Swiss Indoors quarter-finals. 'It wasn't such a good match for nerves, I had to keep balance between the patience and aggressive play', Federer confessed after the win. 'I am always happy when I win.

Especially when I have to overcome ups and down. I think that, despite all, I dictated the match and so in the end I won. Once again I was not consistent on serve but I won and so there is no big issue. I could get the job done in an easier way but I don't always want to reflect on my mistakes and double faults now.' He will play his 200th career-semifinal on Saturday, against the Russian Daniil Medvedev.

In the Open Era only Jimmy Connors reached more, 240. Ivan Lendl is third with 190, followed by fourth John McEnroe (156), Rafael Nadal on fifth place (153), then sixth Guillermo Vilas (150) and seventh Novak Djokovic (141).

'Achieving it in Basel is even more special', Federer recognized. The 37-year-old defeated Simon in two hours and 35 minutes. Can it influence him against Medvedev? 'There were a lot of rallies but I feel well. Only tomorrow I will ask myself how I am doing.

It was not easy for my young opponent either as he had to head into the court late'. Medvedev ended his three-set match against Tsitsipas at past midnight and will have just 16 hours to recover before stepping on the court to face Federer.

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