18 years after making his debut in the qualifying draw at Indian Wells, Roger Federer continues to shine at the so-called ‘fifth slam.’
Now aged 36 and ranked No.1 in the world, the 20-time grand slam champion live up to his credentials with a business-like 6-2, 6-1, win over world No.26 Filip Krajinovic on Monday. During the brief 58-minute encounter, Federer hit 24 winners to 10 unforced errors and converted five out of his eight break point opportunities.
“I think mine was good, Filip’s wasn’t so good and things went quickly.” Federer told Sky Sports about his current level of form.
“He hasn’t got the biggest serve out there, so you get a lot of looks to break. When you have momentum on your side, not only are you serving better, you’re better from the baseline.”
Playing in the tournament for a third consecutive day after his previous match was disrupted by rain, Federer initially took time to settle in. Losing his 2-0 advantage at the start of the match to Krajinovic. Nevertheless, as the match started going, so did the Swiss world No.1. Moving his opponent around the court with the use of some angle shots, Federer regained his lead with the help of back-to-back errors from his rival. Moving ahead 4-2. From that moment on, the top seed dominated the remainder of the encounter. Claiming eight straight points to seal the opening set.
Strolling towards the finish line, he continued to wear down his Serbian rival, who is currently at a ranking high and reached the final of the Paris Masters last November. Continuing to apply pressure and forcing the errors, Federer cruised through the second set. Breaking twice to move to a game away from victory. The one-sided victory was concluded emphatically with a love service game that ended with a serve down the centre of the court. Triggering another mistake from his rival.
“It was a good match from me. But I expected a much tougher (match) clearly. I know Filip can play much better.” Admitted Federer. “I just tried to stretch the lead and I did well. I was able to mix up stuff with a slice, drop shots and some spin.”
The lacklustre display from Krajnovic, featuring 17 unforced errors, was one that Federer thrived upon. Explaining that he paid attention to the reaction of the Serbian after certain points of the match.
“When they (my opponents) lose points I do pay a little bit of attention. Especially when the reaction comes right after the shot. You can see some frustration, especially the misses off slices.” He revealed.
A five-time champion at Indian Wells, Federer has now won a record 58 matches at the Masters event. He also remains unbeaten on the ATP Tour this year after winning titles at the Australian Open followed by Rotterdam.
In the fourth round the top seed will take on Jérémy Chardy, who he leads 3-1 in their head-to-head. The Frenchman booked his place in the fourth round following a three sets win over compatriot Adrian Mannarino.
