Federer edges into Halle International final

The world number one clinched his 40th consecutive grass court win beating Germany's Tommy Haas 6-4, 6-7, 6-3.

Triple defending champion Roger Federer clinched his 40th consecutive grass court win on Saturday beating Germany's Tommy Haas 6-4, 6-7 (4/7), 6-3 to reach the Halle International final.

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The world number one will equal Bjorn Borg's all-time record of 41 set between 1976 and 1981 if he beats either fifth-seed Tomas Berdych of the Czech Republic or Belgian eighth seed Kristof Vliegen in Sunday's final.

Victory will also give him a third title in a row here as he sets his sights on the defense of his Wimbledon crown.

"It was very hard today. Tommy really pushed me round the court and I'm glad to be in the final once again. This is a tournament I like to be part of," said Federer whose last defeat on grass came against Mario Ancic in the first round at Wimbledon in 2002.

"It's also good preparation for Wimbledon."