Federer dominates Nadal, faces Ferrer in China final

SHANGHAI, China — Roger Federer looked sharp in dominating Rafael Nadal 6-4, 6-1 Saturday to advance to the Masters Cup final against David Ferrer, who beat Andy Roddick 6-1, 6-3.

The second-ranked Nadal was 8-5 against Federer and played well early, but the top-ranked Swiss star found another gear while serving at 4-4 in the first set. After Nadal pulled ahead 15-30, the defending champion ran off 20 of the next 21 points.

figure skating

Asada tops Meissner for title

PARIS — Mao Asada fell on the opening jump of her free skate Saturday, but came back strong to beat Kimmie Meissner to win the Trophee Bompard in a rout.

Asada, the reigning world silver medalist, finished with 179.80 points, more than 20 points ahead of Meissner (158.74). Another American, Ashley Wagner, was third.

Canadian teen Patrick Chan pulled off a shocker in the men's final, winning his first Grand Prix title.

soccer

U.S. men defeat South Africa

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa — Steve Cherundolo scored in the 27th minute, and the United States beat 2010 World Cup host South Africa 1-0 Saturday in an exhibition game.

Cherundolo, at 28 oldest player on the U.S. roster, scored his second goal in 43 international appearances.

miscellaneous

Doping offender's ban doubles

Athletes found to be involved in long-term doping will face a four-year ban from 2009, double the existing sanction for first-time offenders. They also will be suspended if they test positive in an initial drug test — even before a back-up sample is examined — under a revised code approved by the World Anti-Doping Agency, its president, Dick Pound, said. Also today, Australia's John Fahey was elected to succeed Pound on Jan. 1.

● In Taipei, Taiwan, Colby Rasmus homered in the first inning, and the United States beat Netherlands 5-0 Saturday to advance to the final of the Baseball World Cup. The Americans will play today against Cuba.

● The Pima College women's basketball team beat Eastern Oklahoma State 62-54 on Saturday at the Arizona Western College Invitational in Yuma. Jessie Ingraham scored 12 points and had six rebounds and eight assists for Pima.