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Basel - Roger Federer will need to do his homework to get ready for Sunday's Swiss Indoors final with Kei Nishikori as the four-time tournament winner faces the Japanese youngster for the first time.
"He's a guy I've never played, first I have to find out about his game," said Federer after booking his place through a 7-6 (7/5), 6-2 defeat of compatriot Stanislas Wawrinka.
Nishikori claimed his third Top 10 victim in the past month as he defeated world number one Novak Djokovic 2-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-0 in a semi-final upset.
Ironically, Federer hit with the 32nd-ranked Nishikori prior to the youngster's upset of Djokovic, who is carrying a shoulder injury and could be doubtful for the Paris Masters starting on Monday.
"I warmed him up today, and I hit with him five years ago in Miami," Federer said of the 21-year-old Nishikori, who lost his only othr final this year in Houston last spring to Amrican Ryan Sweeting.
"I know he's very talented with a lot of potential. But then he got injured and didn't rise in the rankings like maybe he should have.
"He's got great shots and has been on fire for the past month. He's got a quick arm as well. I've got to go out there and take advantage of my chances."
