Tennis: Federer First-round Australian Open Win Over Andreas Seppi
January 20th 2009 14:15
Roger Federer took the first step towards equalling Pete Sampras' Grand Slam-winning record, beating off defiant Italian Andreas Seppi on Monday to march into the second round of the Australian Open. Chasing his fourth Open and a record-equalling 14th Grand Slam title, Federer beat world No.34 Seppi 6-1 7-6 (7-4) 7-5 in two hours, 21 minutes at Rod Laver Arena.
Seppi was stoic and troubled the Swiss at times, but Federer's ability to capitalise on the big points while his opponent couldn't proved the difference.
The Italian had 10 break points for the match, and failed to convert any.
Federer came into the tournament in the unusual position of being No.2 seed - Spaniard Rafael Nadal having pinched his world No.1 crown last year.
After breezing through the first set in 24 minutes, Federer was then pushed to hour-long second and third sets before eventually closing out the match.
He will now play Russian qualifier Evgeny Korolev in the second round.
AAP
Seppi was stoic and troubled the Swiss at times, but Federer's ability to capitalise on the big points while his opponent couldn't proved the difference.
The Italian had 10 break points for the match, and failed to convert any.
Federer came into the tournament in the unusual position of being No.2 seed - Spaniard Rafael Nadal having pinched his world No.1 crown last year.
After breezing through the first set in 24 minutes, Federer was then pushed to hour-long second and third sets before eventually closing out the match.
He will now play Russian qualifier Evgeny Korolev in the second round.
AAP
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