Federer through to fourth round after Soderling retires
A bout of glandular fever hampered the start of Roger Federer's season
Monday, 31, Mar 2008 10:27
Roger Federer is through to the fourth round of the Sony Ericsson Open in Miami after Robin Soderling retired due to illness.
The world number one, still seeking his first appearance in a final in 2008, was leading 6-4 3-0 when the Swede pulled out.
Federer, a winner in Miami in 2005 and 2006, said he was pleased with his display at Crandon Park.
"Apparently it was a fever. There was no point in his continuing and risking his health," Federer said.
"I hope I can make it step by step and once you make it to the quarter-finals or semi-finals you start thinking about winning the title."
On progressing as a result of his opponent's misfortune, Federer added: "You're sort of happy you got through to the next round.
"You're not happy for your opponent, because it's never a way you want to win a match, but you've got to push him to give up."
The world number one will clash with Jose Acasuso in round four, after the Argentine beat Israeli Dudi Sela 6-4 6-4.
Elsewhere, Australian Open runner-up Jo-Wilfried Tsonga is out after losing 6-3 6-3 to fellow Frenchman Julien Benneteau.
Fourth seed Nikolay Davydenko of Russia beat Italian Simone Bolelli 6-7 7-5 6-1 to reach the fourth round.