Roddick powers way to title

Andy Roddick beat Tomas Berdych of the Czech Republic 7-5, 6-4 to win the Sony Ericsson Open in an enthralling final yesterday. The victory was the American's second at Key Biscayne following his win in 2004, and came after two fiercely contested sets.

There was nothing to choose between the pair yesterday in a high-quality first set, with Berdych producing some delightful lobs and Roddick unleashing his powerful serve. But Roddick broke in the 11th game and then served out the set in style, finishing with a magnificent ace. The 27-year-old American then grabbed the momentum when he broke Berdych's first serve of the second.

Once ahead Roddick never looked like giving up his advantage but he still had to face tenacious opposition from Berdych, who had beaten world No1 Roger Federer on his way to the final.

"I thought I played a pretty smart tournament," said Roddick, who was also quick to praise his opponent. "There wasn't much difference [between us], I thought Tommy had a great tournament; he is a complete player and I was happy to see him play well this week."