Roger Federer charges into second round

Updated 16/01/2018 at 17:37 GMT

Roger Federer kicked off his season with a commanding victory over Aljaz Bedene in the Australian Open first round.

Roger Federer of Switzerland celebrates after winning his first round match against Aljaz Bedene of Slovenia on day two of the 2018 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 16, 2018 in Melbourne, Australia (Getty Images)

Image credit: Getty Images

While not quite as impressive as title rivals Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, the Swiss maestro still coasted to a 6-3 6-4 6-3 victory.

[Watch the 2018 Australian Open exclusively live on Eurosport and Eurosport Player]

A single break in each set was enough for Federer who looked in total control from beginning to end on Rod Laver Arena.

Tennis

Alcaraz, Sinner 'already announcing themselves' as 'superstars,' says Federer

15/03/2024 at 17:25

One member of the sell-out crowd yelled "Give him a chance Rog" late on, but the Swiss was not listening and finished the match on Bedene's serve when his opponent netted a backhand.

Highlights: Roger Federer outclasses Aljaz Bedene

Germany’s Jan-Lennard Struff awaits Federer in the second round.

Bedene, competing under the Slovenian flag again after reverting from Great Britain, put up a brave fight but could make an impact on the Federer serve.

He switched back to his old nationality after failing to persuade the International Tennis Federation to allow him to represent GB in the Davis Cup.

The only time Federer looked remotely stumped came during a post-match interview conducted by American comedian Will Ferrell who told him he had played like a "silky gazelle".

"Don't they get eaten in the end?," Federer ventured before being asked whether he was a witch or a vampire and whether his age-defying performances were down to a diet of wombat meat.

While Ferrell provided bonus comedy, Federer again proved that when it comes to tennis he is the king of the jungle.

"I am hoping for another good year," Federer, who also won Wimbledon for a record eighth time in 2017, said on court.

"I am not sure it will go that well because I'm a year older, Rafa's looking in tip-top shape and others guys are coming back."

With additional reporting from Reuters

ATP Indian Wells

Federer calls on Tsitsipas to 'take it to next level' and bounce back from dip in form

14/03/2024 at 09:37

Tennis

Federer dazzles on basketball court in front of NBA superstar Curry

10/03/2024 at 10:54

ATP Indian Wells

Djokovic admits to 'strange feeling' competing without absent Nadal and retired Federer

08/03/2024 at 14:27

Join 3M+ users on app

Stay up to date with the latest news, results and live sports

Download

Scan me