Rafael Nadal powers past Marin Cilic to reach Shanghai Masters final

Long-time rival Roger Federer takes on Juan Martin del Potro in the tournament's other semi-final.

SHANGHAI, CHINA - OCTOBER 14:  Rafael Nadal of Spain celebrates after winning the Men's singles Semifinal mach against Marin Cilic of Coratia on day seven of 2017 ATP Shanghai Rolex Masters at Qizhong Stadium on October 14, 2017 in Shanghai, China.  (Photo by Lintao Zhang/Getty Images)
Powered by automated translation

Rafael Nadal survived a rollercoaster encounter with fourth seed Marin Cilic to power into Sunday's final of the Shanghai Masters and a possible showdown with old rival Roger Federer.

The Spanish world No 1, who has never won the tournament but is on a terrific run of form, finally saw off the Croatian after saving three set points in the opener on the way to a tense 7-5, 7-6 victory.

__________________________

Read more:

__________________________

World No 2 Federer plays Juan Martin del Potro in the other semi-final later on Saturday after the Argentine said he was fit despite hurting his wrist in a fall in the quarter-finals.

In other tennis news, former world No 1 Maria Sharapova reached her first final since returning from a 15-month doping ban in April after a 6-3, 6-1 win over local favourite Shuai Peng.