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Djokovic Beats Federer for Rome Title; Sharapova Also Wins

ROME — Top-ranked Novak Djokovic bolstered his clay-court credentials a week ahead of Roland Garros with a convincing 6-4, 6-3 win over Roger Federer on Sunday to capture his fourth Italian Open title.

Extending his winning streak to 22 matches, Djokovic proved too consistent and too quick for Federer, who has never won the title at the Foro Italico in 15 appearances.

"It was a great week and today was my best match," Djokovic told the crowd in Italian. "It's always a pleasure to play against Roger and obviously I'm very pleased by today. ... Along with 2011, this is the best year of my career.