Rusedski blitzed by Hewitt

Greg Rusedski missed out on a semi-final showdown with Wimbledon champion Pete Sampras as he bowed out of the Stella Artois Championships tonight.

Rusedski lost his quarter-final clash with defending champion Lleyton Hewitt in straight sets at Queen's Club, going down 6-4 6-4 in 1hr 12 minutes.

The British number two got off to the worst possible start by losing his serve in the opening game of the match, Hewitt producing a brilliant forehand return winner after Rusedski had staved off one break point.

That was all the number three seed needed to take the opening set as he dictated rallies from the back of the court in the windy conditions.

Rusedski held his first two service games in the second set but paid the price for crucial errors in his third, a double fault and an easy volley hit well wide setting Hewitt up for another trademark winner and 3-2 lead.

Even one thunderous ace recorded at 144mph and the saving of one match point in the ninth game failed to inspire Rusedski to any heroics, Hewitt sealing a well deserved win as another Rusedski backhand found the net.

Hewitt will now face Sampras in the semi-finals in a repeat of last year's final won in straight sets by the young Australian.