Roger Federer could face his nemesis Andy Murray in the semi-finals of the Indian Wells ATP tournament after being seeded second in the draw.

The 27-year-old Swiss is a three-times champion at Indian Wells Tennis Garden but has lost to the Scot five times in seven career meetings, including their last three encounters.

Murray, who beat Federer 6-7 6-2 6-2 in the Qatar Open semi-finals in January when they last met, has been seeded fourth for the opening Masters Series event of the season.

However, they both face tricky routes to reach the last four at Indian Wells after being forced through injury or illness to spend time away from the game.

Federer, sidelined by a back injury since losing last month's Australian Open final to Rafael Nadal, is seeded to meet big-serving Croat Ivo Karlovic in round three.

Should Federer advance to the last eight, he is likely to face Nikolay Davydenko who has never beaten the 13-times grand slam champion in 12 attempts.

Murray, 21, is eager to compete at Indian Wells where his likely opponent in the fourth round is Tommy Robredo.

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