Defending champion Roger Federer admits that it will be hard for him to repeat his 2017 heroics at the Australian Open after defeating Aljaz Bedene in his first round match.
The Swiss second seed required just over 100 minutes to dismiss Slovenia’s Bedene 6-3, 6-4, 6-3. Saving the two break points he faced in the match, both of which occurred in the second set, and hammering a total of 41 winners across the court.
It was a vintage display from Federer, who dictated play by bullying his opponent around the court. Bedene, who was playing Federer for the first time, got as good as he could. Drawing praise from the Melbourne crowd. Still, it was not enough to derail Federer from cruising to victory. His 88th in the tournament’s history.
Returning to Rod Laver Arena was a nostalgic experience for the Swiss player. 12 months ago, he defeated Rafael Nadal in five sets inside the stadium to win his 18th grand slam title. What was more impressive was that he won the title after returning from a six-month injury break.
“I was thinking back a lot about what happened last year because this (the Australian Open) was the favourite tournament of my season by far. It was such a surprise to be walking out here and standing out here after everything I gone through last year.” Said Federer.
“Being back in Melbourne is an amazing feeling and hopefully I can keep that going for a little bit longer.”
Laying out his title credentials with a clinical first round performance, Federer is under no illusion of the tough battle he faces. Given the resurgence of Nadal and Djokovic, as well as the emergence of the next generation of players. Most notably fourth seed Alexander Zverev.
“I’m hoping for it to go well again.” Federer said about his bid this year.
“I’m not sure if it can go this well because last year was just so good.”
The world No.2 appears to be not human with his movement around the court at the age of 36. Although, Federer openly admits that it is a concern for him.
“ I’m just worried and I know it kinda won’t be (as god as last year) because I’m a year older, guys are coming back and Rafa is in tip top shape. I can’t control it all and last year was a fairytale.” Explained the 19-time grand slam champion.
Federer will take on Germany’s Jan-Lennard Struff in the second round.
