Focused Federer shines in Shanghai

Roger Federer defeated France's Gilles Simon 7-6 (6), 7-6 (2) to capture his fourth title of the year at the Shanghai Masters on Sunday.

The Swiss star nearly exited the tournament in his opening match when he had to save five match points against Leonardo Mayer. But he rebounded from that poor start to beat No 1 Novak Djokovic in the semifinals before slamming the door on Simon for his first title in Shanghai.

It has been a banner year for Federer despite the fact he has fallen just short at the majors. He leads the tour in match wins (61), top-10 wins (13) and final appearances (nine).