Roger Federer hammers Rafael Nadal in Shanghai Masters final to secure 94th title

Roger Federer of Switzerland eyes on the ball during his men's singles final match against Rafael Nadal of Spain in the Shanghai Masters tennis tournament.|AP

Rafael Nadal of Spain hits a return shot to Roger Federer of Switzerland during their men's singles final match of the Shanghai Masters tennis tournament at Qizhong Forest Sports City Tennis Center in Shanghai, China|AP

Nadal, who admitted afterwards that he had been beaten by the better man on the night, was ahead in their overall record going into the clash -- 23 wins to Federer's 14.|AP

Nadal, 31, fresh from winning the US Open and China Open, groaned while lashing many of his shots; Federer was all quiet efficiency.|AP

Rafael Nadal of Spain hits a return against Roger Federer of Switzerland during their men's singles final match at the Shanghai Masters tennis tournament in Shanghai.|AFP

Federer, a 19-time Grand Slam champion, was in full flow under the Qizhong Tennis Center roof, which was closed because of downpours in Shanghai.|AP

It was a 94th title for the Swiss legend, drawing him level with the great Ivan Lendl, and a fifth victory in a row against world number one Nadal.|AP