Dominic Thiem says he is relishing the opportunity to go up against Roger Federer in the BNP Paribas Open final at Indian Wells.
The Austrian saw off Milos Raonic 7-6 (7-3) 6-7 (3-7) 6-4 in two hours and 31 minutes to seal progression to Sunday’s showpiece.
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He faces the tough task of trying to find a way past 20-time Grand Slam champion Federer as he attempts to seal a first-ever Masters 1000 title.
Federer booked his place in the final after rival Rafael Nadal pulled out of their semi-final on Saturday due to injury. “It’s always something special to play Roger and also something special to compete in Masters 1000 finals,” said Thiem.
“It’s only my third one. I have pretty bad stats in the finals, so I know it’s going to be very tough, but at the same time, I will give everything to hopefully win my first title.”
