Federer happy to avoid Nadal

Roger Federer is relieved he will not be facing clay nemesis Rafael Nadal in Sunday's French Open final.

The Swiss has lost the last three Roland Garros showpieces to Nadal, but the Spaniard was knocked out in the fourth round this year by Robin Soderling. And it is Sweden's Soderling, the 23rd seed, who is now standing in between Federer and a first title on the Parisian clay.

"It's nice to play against someone else," Federer said. "I'm not really going to miss him. Maybe you (the press) are going to miss him but not me."

The world number two, who also lost to Nadal in the semi-finals here in 2005, is one win away from completing a sweep of grand slam titles. He would be the sixth man to achieve such a feat.

Federer made the final after coming back from two sets to one down to defeat plucky Argentinian Juan Martin del Potro 3-6 7-6 (7/2) 2-6 6-1 6-4.

Del Potro, the fifth seed, started in unforgiving mood but tired after winning the third set.

Federer, as he has in every match so far this tournament, finished the stronger and finally got on top of his opponent's serve.

It was his second five-setter this past fortnight - he was also taken the distance by Tommy Haas in round four.

"It feels great to come through hard matches like these," said the 27-year-old.

"It is more emotional, more satisfying. And I still feel fine."