As well as strengthening his chances of grabbing the eighth and final spot for the season-ending Masters Cup in Houston next month, the win also prevented Roddick from regaining the ATP Champions Race lead from Juan Carlos Ferrero who didn't play here this week.

"I feel great. I'm playing very good this week," said Nalbandian.

"It was a very close match. He didn't serve very well today, that was the difference."

On Sunday, Nalbandian meets countryman Guillermo Coria, who advanced to his seventh final of the year, cruising past Croatia's Ivan Ljubicic 6-4, 6-4.

Coria, who is seeking his fifth title of the year, can pass Andre Agassi for fourth position in the ATP Champions Race if he wins the title on Sunday.

Despite the defeat, Roddick was still optimistic about his chances for the rest of the season starting in Paris next week.

"I was a little erratic on my forehand, besides that I was pretty happy," said the 21-year-old.

"Maybe I didn't play my best at the right time. I'm not disappointed with the way I played. He was just playing better.

"I feel like I'm on the verge of playing very well. I feel optimistic for the next couple of weeks. I got a couple of tough matches here."