20-time grand slam champion Roger Federer has kicked-off his Hopman Cup campaign with a clinical 6-1, 6-1, win over Great Britain’s Cameron Norrie.
Federer, who is bidding to win the mixed team event for the third time in his career, was a step ahead of the world No.91 throughout the match. Winning 70% of his service points and firing six aces past his British rival. Federer hasn’t lost to a British player since Andy Murray In January 2013.
“I got a lot of defending to do this Australian summer, but I am ready to go.” Said the reigning Australian Open champion. “This was a great start, but obviously I have a long way to go both here (at the Hopman Cup) and Melbourne (Australian Open).”
“It’s nice that I am feeling as good as I am and I played a wonderful match against Cameron, who I thought played a great match against Tsitsipas already.” He added.
Playing a competitive match for the first time since his loss to Alexander Zverev at the ATP Finals, Federer experienced a stern test early on. Fending off three consecutive break points during his first service game. Nevertheless, the experience and power of the Swiss player overwhelmed Norrie on the court. The Brit produced glimpses of his best tennis, but they were not consistent enough to pose any danger. Enabling Federer to win five games in a row before going on to clinch the opening set with the help of a forehand volley at the net.
An almost identical storyline followed in the second set. Federer’s finesse delighted the Australian crowd and drew frustration from his opponent. Impressively dropping only four points behind his serve as he didn’t face a single break point. Cruising towards the finish line, victory was sealed after 57 minutes of play when a deep Federer backhand on match point proved too much for Norrie to handle.
“It’s always been fun coming here. I’ve had the most wonderful partners in Martina Hingis, my wife and Belinda (Bencic). So I could have not asked for more.” Federer reflected about his participation in the Hopman Cup.
“It’s been an absolutely privileged to come here.”
With 2000 ranking points to defend in the coming weeks, the 37-year-old has been eager to play down any hype surrounding him. During his on-court interview, the Swiss player said he believes defending a title is a lot easier than winning it in the first place.
“I think defending it easier than winning the first time around. You got to break it and crack it.” He said.
“Once you know, that second time around you know that technique. It’s the same with winning a tournament and the next time round you’re more confident.”
Switzerland leads Great Britain 1-0 in their tie. Later in the day Bencic will take on Katie Boulter before a mixed doubles match is played.
