Dominant Federer begins title defence in style
Defending champion Roger Federer begins Wimbledon in style
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Monday, 23, Jun 2008 11:04
Wimbledon champion Roger Federer has begun his quest for a record-breaking sixth consecutive title in some style against Dominik Hrbaty.
The Swiss world number one eased to a comfortable 6-3 6-2 6-2 victory against the Slovakian in the first match on Centre Court in just one hour and 19 minutes.
Federer played some sublime tennis at times, but he rarely needed to come out of second gear against a man who is ranked at 273 in the world.
"I played well. It was a good match, and it was fun – a good way to start Wimbledon," the five-time champion told the BBC afterwards.
The match was notable for the jovial spirit of both players throughout, which included the unusual sight of the two sitting next to one another in the changeover between games.
"[Dominik] is a good friend of mine and this is the first time I have ever beaten him," Federer continued.
"It might be his last Wimbledon before he retires and he said he wanted it to be a special occasion.
"He wanted to sit next to me so I said OK."
He added: "It is never easy opening on Centre Court here at Wimbledon but it is always an honour."
In the second round, Federer will face Sweden's Robin Soderling, who himself triumphed over American Kevin Kim. And the Swiss believes he will have a tougher time in that match.
"He's a dangerous player, a tough player," Federer explained.
"I've had some difficult matches against him in the past so it will be a true test."