Roger Federer beats Alenjandro Falla in ATP Gerry Weber Open final

The Swiss entered the ATP 250 grass-court tournament as the defending champion, and he extended his record in Halle to 46-5 with a hard-fought 7-6 (7-2) 7-6 (7-3) triumph over the plucky Colombian.

Victory sees Federer collect his 79th tour title, while at the other end of the spectrum Falla was attempting to collect his maiden ATP trophy.

Initially, the distinction in success showed as Federer took a second break-point chance to move 5-3 ahead, and had the opportunity to serve for the set.

However, a stubborn Falla did not wilt and he broke back to 15, forcing a first-set tie-break.

Federer's class once more shone through, however, as the second seed reeled off five straight points to clinch the set.

Buoyed by taking the opener, Federer broke at the first chance to take a 1-0 lead in the second set, only for Falla to once more show his resolve by immediately returning the favour.

There were no more breaks as another tie-break ensued, and Federer soon established a 3-0 lead before comfortably seeing out the match.

Federer extends his head-to-head record over Falla to 7-0, and he will now switch his focus to Wimbledon where he is hoping to become an eight-time champion.