Roger Federer equalled Bjorn Borg's record for consecutive grass court victories when he won his fourth successive Halle title here on Sunday.
The world number one defeated fifth seed Tomas Berdych of the Czech Republic 6-0, 6-7 (5/7), 6-2 in the final. It was his 41st consecutive win on grass and equalled Borg's mark set between 1976 and 1981. The Swiss can set a new record when he opens the defence of his Wimbledon title the week after next.
"This is a great moment for me. Coming in the week directly after the French Open it was especially hard for me," said a tired Federer who saw his bid to win an elusive French Open title thwarted by Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros last weekend.
"Halle has always brought me luck in recent years. I hope it stays that way." Federer's last defeat on grass came against Mario Ancic in the first round at Wimbledon in 2002.