Tim Henman's previously outstanding record against Roger Federer counted for nothing as he lost in straight sets to the world number one in the Pacific Life Open final in Indian Wells.

Henman went into Sunday's final able to boast six wins in seven previous matches against Switzerland's Wimbledon and Australian Open champion.

But it was Federer who breezed to a 6-3 6-3 victory to gain revenge for recent defeats against the British number one in Paris last October and then Rotterdam six weeks later.

In searing heat, Henman had no answer after Federer took control of the opening set by breaking his opponent in the fourth game and easily maintaining his advantage.

The second set was a near carbon copy of the first, Henman conceding the initiative once again in his second service game.

The only difference was that this time it came in the third game, Federer needing only two of the three break-points he earned.

Henman managed to save a break point in the seventh game but there was no coming back in game nine as Federer clinched victory on the first of two match-points.

Henman's only consolation was the memory of a confidence-boosting run to the final which included a notable quarter-final victory over American Andy Roddick.

Henman was gracious in defeat, saying: "I'd really like to congratulate Roger. He came into this week as the world number one and he certainly proved that today. He played a great match and he has had a great week."

Federer added: "I'd like to congratulate Tim for a great event. He's beaten some great players and is on a track to come really close to my ranking.

"We have had some difficulties with his game in the past but today was good for me and I'm very happy to have won this tournament because this is one of the biggest ones in the world."