Roared on by a capacity crowd in the Palexpo Arena, Federer dismantled the world number 17 Fognini 6-2, 6-3, 7-6 (4) in just under two hours.
Switzerland, who lost to the US in their only other Davis Cup final appearance in 1992, set up a title round with France, who beat holders Czech Republic at Roland Garros.
“It’s really nice to share it [victory] with my team members,” said Federer. “I think I really struggled today [Sunday]. I think Fognini struggled all weekend.
“These are tough conditions, a pretty quick court, so it’s always going to happen especially if you are not serving so well. I thought today [Sunday] wasn’t the best performance from both of us but then again you’ve got to fight with what you’ve got and in the end I’m happy to make the difference.”
France wrap up Czech tie with 4-1 win
France wrapped up their Davis Cup semi-final tie against holders Czech Republic 4-1 on Sunday, a day after securing their final spot on home soil.
Julien Benneteau lost 6-4, 6-3 to Jiri Vesely before Gael Monfils beat Lukas Rosol 5-7, 6-4, 7-5 in the reverse singles at Roland Garros.
Richard Gasquet and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga secured the winning point in Saturday’s doubles by beating Radek Stepanek and Tomas Berdych 6-7(4) 6-4 7-6(5) 6-1.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 15th, 2014.
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