DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, March 4 (UPI) -- Spain's Rafael Nadal beat Roger Federer, 2-6, 6-4, 6-4, in Saturday's title match of the $1 million Dubai Tennis Championships.
The 19-year-old Nadal, ranked second in the world and second in this tournament, was playing in only his second event of 2006 after being sidelined for fourth months because of a lingering foot injury. For his 13th career title, he earned $187,500 and extended his career record against Federer to 3-1.
"To beat Roger is special, I am so happy," Nadal told the BBC. "This comeback is special for me."
After winning the first set, 6-2, it looked like Federer, 24, was on the way to his 20th straight match win at the Dubai event. Nadal took control of the match when he broke Federer at 4-4 in the third set.
Federer, a seven-time Grand Slam champion, dropped to 16-1 for the season and claimed $98,600 as the runner-up.
