David Ferrer makes Copa Claro quarters

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BUENOS AIRES, Argentina -- Top-seeded David Ferrer of Spain defeated Facundo Bagnis of Argentina 6-3, 6-4 on Wednesday to reach the quarterfinals of the Copa Claro clay-court tournament.

Japan's 22-year-old Kei Nishikori beat Romania's Victor Hanescu 3-6, 7-5, 6-1 to reach the last eight.

No. 6 Stanislas Wawrinka of Switzerland also made the quarterfinals, winning 6-3, 5-7, 6-2 over Benoit Paire of France.

The happiest player into the quarterfinals was Chilean Fernando Gonzalez, who will retire after next month's Masters tournament in Florida. Gonzalez defeated Spaniard Albert Ramos 7-6 (6), 7-6 (5).

"I am always aware I have few matches remaining," Gonzalez said.

Ferrer is one of the game's best on clay, and he showed his experience against the 21-year-old Argentine.

"He made it difficult for me, but he failed on some important points," Ferrer said.

Ferrer now has a day to relax with his quarterfinal set for Friday.

Ferrer played local Argentine players in both his matches here, yet got a little more support from the fans Wednesday.

"The support was very equal today," Ferrer said. "Here they treat you like you are at home, or even better."

Wawrinka was playing an opponent he knows well in Paire.

"I was playing against a friend, and it wasn't easy," he said. "Besides, he played a good match."

Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press

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