Federer Wins To End Day Four At Australian Open

Roger Federer barely put a foot wrong on Thursday night as he continued his quest for a sixth Australian Open trophy, which would represent his 20th Grand Slam championship crown.

The defending champion knocked out Jan-Lennard Struff of Germany 6-4, 6-4, 7-6(4) in one hour and 56 minutes on Rod Laver Arena, in the final match of the day completed in 30°C temperatures.

“I’ve practised with him [Struff], and played against him in doubles and singles,” said Federer, in an on-court interview with former World No. 1 Jim Courier. “You know he can serve 215 or 220 [kilometres per hour] for five hours, so that’s what you have to be ready for. I had to protect my own serve and get the break with a good defence.

“It wasn’t easy. There’s an expectation on the underdog, but it was a good match and I wish him the best for the season.”

Federer, making his 19th appearance at Melbourne Park, will look to maintain his momentum on Saturday against Richard Gasquet, the French No. 29 seed, in the third round. Gasquet proved too strong for Italian World No. 217 Lorenzo Sonego 6-2, 6-2, 6-3. Federer leads Gasquet 16-2 in their FedEx ATP Head2Head series.

More to follow…