Japan's Nishikori reaches second ATP final

HOUSTON, Texas: Japan Kei Nishikori advanced to the second final of his career, defeating Pablo Cuevas 6-3, 7-5 in the semi-finals of the ATP Tour U.S. Clay Court on Saturday.

Sixth-seeded Nishikori store Cuevas Uruguay with a forehand winner on the second match point to reach the final where he will face American wild card Ryan Sweeting.

"I played great today. My service was not good, but otherwise correct a lot and it was hot and humid, but I think I fought through, "said Nishikori.

The 21-year Nishikori broke Cuevas seventh seeded in the fifth and 11th games of the second set before serving out the match.

Nishikori hopes that a victory in Sunday's final will help to educate charities he set up to help victims after the earthquake in his homeland or the tsunami disaster.