Federer, who has not lost a final in well over a year, stands a step away from a 10th trophy this season; he awaits a winner from another star-studded semifinal: Andy Roddick versus Marat Safin.

Federer, the runaway success story of this year with three of the four Grand Slam titles to hand, won his 68th match of the season against just six losses.

The polite Thai crowd gave both players the respect they deserved -- and Federer felt their warmth.

"I'm sorry I had to beat Paradorn in Thailand," said Federer, who has already secured this year's world number one ranking. "I know how much he wants to win here.

"But I'm very happy to win, we had some great points and rallies. We can thank the crowd for that."