Benneteau upsets Ferrer in Malaysia semi

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Sept. 29 (UPI) -- Julien Benneteau Saturday upset world No. 5 David Ferrer and earned a spot against second-seeded Juan Monaco in the finals of the Malaysian Open.

Benneteau posted a clear 6-4, 6-1 decision over Ferrer, evening his career record at 4-4 against the Spaniard. Benneteau finished off five of his six break chances against Ferrer, including both in the third set.

Ferrer didn't give in easily, however, getting a pair of breaks in the first set. But Benneteau stopped all nine of Ferrer's break opportunities in the second set in getting to the tournament finals.

Monaco got by third-seeded Kei Nishikori 2-6, 6-2, 7-6 (7-4) in a 2-hour, 42-minute marathon. By the end of the match Monaco owned a slim 97-94 edge in total points. The three points were the difference in the final tiebreaker.

Each player had four breaks, including converting the only break point they had in the third set.

Sunday's final will be the first career meeting between Monaco and Benneteau.

Monaco is seeking his fourth title of 2012. He's gone nearly five years between titles before he won in Chile in February. He also won in Houston and Hamburg, Germany, in improving to 6-9 in title matches.

Benneteau is 0-6 lifetime while playing in finals.

The Malaysian Open winner claims $153,400 with the runner-up earning $81,000. By appearing in the semifinals, both Ferrer and Nishikori collect $44,000.