Madrid, May 8 (AFP) Rafael Nadal overcame Roger Federer 5-7, 6-1, 6-3 to set up a Madrid Masters final against Novak Djokovic on an emotional day that had started with a tearful tribute to Seve Ballesteros.
World number one Nadal stood side-by-side with old rival Federer in a minute's silence at the Caja Magica before a showreel of Ballesteros's greatest moments played out on the giant courtside screens.
"It's a terrible day for Spain and the world. We lost a great champion, probably the greatest in the history of Spain," said Nadal of the 54-year-old golfing legend, who lost his brave fight against cancer.
"Seve was one of the pioneers in so many things...especially in golf. He was an example to everyone.