Stylish Federer eases past Raonic

ByReuters

Updated 09/11/2014 at 22:54 GMT

Roger Federer eased his way into the ATP World Tour Finals with a 6-1 7-6(0) defeat of Canadian newcomer Milos Raonic in his opening round-robin match.

Roger Federer (Reuters)

Image credit: Reuters

The 33-year-old Swiss, competing for a record 13th time at the season-ender, took advantage of some early Raonic nerves to pocket the opening set in 25 minutes but things got tougher.

Raonic, the first Canadian to qualify for the tournament, began to do damage with his booming serve and even carved out several break point opportunities as Federer's level dipped slightly.

Six-times champion Federer saved a set point at 5-6 before streaking away in the tiebreak as his opponent buckled.

ATP Rome