Novak Djokovic wins Italian Open title

ROME -- Top-ranked Novak Djokovic bolstered his clay-court credentials a week ahead of the French Open 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. I don't know how [to] continue at Roland Garros, but obviously I have a lot of confidence. I hope I can continue like this."

The French Open, which begins next weekend, is the only Grand Slam that Djokovic has never won. He will enter as the favorite, considering Rafael Nadal's recent struggles.

"I don't think I need to go and do anything more special for Roland Garros," Djokovic said. "I just need to keep going on [this] route."

Djokovic produced a spectacular return to set up the decisive break at the end of the first set then got an early break in the second.

The match lasted just 75 minutes.

"Novak was too strong today," Federer said."I know I can play better. Novak was rock solid today."

Djokovic also won the Rome title in 2008, 2011 and last year.

Handed a marker to sign a TV camera lens after the match, Djokovic wrote in Italian, "Grazie ancora Roma" (Thanks again Rome), surrounded by a heart.

With the temperature soaring to near 90 degrees at the Foro Italico, Djokovic won most of the long rallies.

The first set was decided by just a few points. Leading 5-4, Djokovic produced a spectacular forehand return cross-court winner that landed on the line to set up a break point. He closed it out when Federer netted a backhand after a long rally.

The only real problem for Djokovic came after the trophy presentation when a champagne cork popped prematurely and appeared to graze his forehead.

"We had an argument, Mr. Champagne and I," Djokovic said. "He threw a punch, and I won't forget it."