Agassi becomes oldest to take world's No. 1 ranking

HOUSTON -- Andre Agassi became the oldest men's player to be ranked No. 1 in the world and advanced to the finals of the U.S. Men's Clay Court Championships with a 6-4, 6-1 win over Jurgen Melzer on Saturday night.

Agassi's victory gave him enough points to surpass Lleyton Hewitt of Australia and regain the top spot for the first time since Sept. 10, 2000.

"It feels amazing, I feel I've forgotten what it's like," said Agassi, who will be 33 on Tuesday.

Agassi replaced Jimmy Connors as the oldest player to hold the top ranking. Connors held the No. 1 spot at 30 years, 10 months in 1983. Agassi also became the fifth player over 30 to hold the top rank.

Agassi will play two-time champion Andy Roddick in today's finals. Roddick rallied to a 4-6, 6-1, 6-2 victory over Olivier Mutis.

Williams sisters sweep openers in Fed Cup

LOWELL, Mass. -- Venus and Serena Williams gave the United States a commanding lead in its Fed Cup opener Saturday.

Serena Williams recovered from a tough first set against Iveta Benesova to win 7-5, 6-1.

Venus Williams routed Daja Bedanova 6-1, 6-0 in 48 minutes.

-- From wire reports