Rust-free Federer launches Melbourne campaign with sublime win


  • Tennis
  • Monday, 20 Jan 2020

Tennis - Australian Open - First Round - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 20, 2020 Switzerland's Roger Federer in action during the match against Steve Johnson of the U.S. REUTERS/Kai Pfaffenbach

MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Roger Federer showed no sign of rust despite a lack of match practice ahead of the Australian Open as he launched his bid for a record-extending 21st Grand Slam title by hammering Steve Johnson 6-3 6-2 6-2 in the first round on Monday.

Playing his first competitive match since losing to Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in the ATP Finals in November, the 38-year-old broke his opponent's serve early in each of the three sets and closed out the match when Johnson hit a return long.

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