Rested Roger Federer admits to some rust after winning return at Cincinnati Masters

The six-time Western & Southern Open winner – and defending champion –was the star of the day’s play as he romped to a 6-4 6-4 victory over Roberto Bautista Agut in the second round, his first match since he lost in the final of Wimbledon over a month ago.

Not only did the Swiss have to contend with a lack of match practice but he also had to adjust to a new surface - yet on the whole he was pleased with how he fared as his hard court season gets underway.

"I'm happy I got through this first one. Now I know what it's about," Federer said. "I have a day off tomorrow where I can think about how things went today, where I need to improve. There is always a few things. And then looking forward to see who I play on Thursday."

Nevertheless, the veteran admitted that it had not been a completely seamless return to action.

"For most of the day I was not even aware - I mean, I knew I had a match tonight, but I was just wandering around doing stuff with my wife and my kids,” he added. “I looked at the watch and I was like, 'Oh, I play in a three or four hours. I better get over there and get warmed up.'

“It's been a while since I've had a match.”

Federer will now face Kevin Anderson or Jack Sock in the next round.