Madrid Open 2012: Roger Federer Will Coast to Title

The 2012 Madrid Open belongs to Roger Federer—almost by default. Both of the Fed's rivals have been upset, clearing a path to an easy victory.

Rafael Nadal was stunned by Fernando Verdasco on the tournament's blue clay in the third round, and top-seeded Novak Djokovic was knocked off by Janko Tipsarevic in the quarterfinals.

Federer dispatched of Tipsarevic on Saturday in the semifinals, and now he is prepared to take home the tournament championship.

He will face Tomas Berdych in the final, after Berdych earned a hard-fought win over Juan Martin del Potro in his semifinal match.

Berdych has obviously played well in this tournament, but Federer has always handled him in their previous head-to-head meetings. Fed is 10-4 lifetime vs. Berdych, and that includes a 2-0 mark against him on clay.

I expect more of the same in today's final as the Fed rolls to victory. Federer seems well-rested and adjusted to the nuances of the blue surface. He is playing well and his performance, in this tune-up to the French Open, could be a great sign of things to come at Roland Garros.

The French Open begins on May 27, and Federer should be happy with where his clay court game is—even if this clay is blue instead of the customary dusty brown.

The blue clay has been a major discussion throughout this tournament. Both Djoker and Rafa whined about it after their losses.

Djokovic's comments were especially critical of the surface. The San Francisco Chronicle quotes him as follows:

"

"I want to forget this week as soon as possible and move on to the real clay courts," Djokovic said. "Here you can't predict the ball bounce or movement. They can do whatever they want, but I won't be here next year if this clay stays."

"

Both Djokovic and Nadal have vowed not to return to the tournament next year, unless the blue clay is replaced.

As usual, Federer has taken it all in stride. He's quietly made the adjustments necessary, and his ability to adapt will lead him to his 74th career singles title.

Follow Brian Mazique and Franchiseplay.net for reactions, analysis and news from the world of sports and sports Video Games

Follow @BrianMazique

Follow @franchiseplay