Federer signals title intent with dominant display

After the dramas on Centre Court earlier Thursday, World No. 3 Roger Federer expended minimum fuss to secure his place in the Wimbledon third round, dismissing France’s Adrian Mannarino 6-2, 6-3, 6-2.

The Swiss is chasing a record-equalling seventh Wimbledon men’s singles title and stayed on course as he hit 38 winners to just 10 unforced errors and broke Mannarino’s serve five times in the 88-minute rout.

"I think I served great in the beginning and was able to sort of keep that going for the remainder of the match," said Federer. "From the baseline I think I was solid, so it was a really good match. I think the French Open was just proof that I'm in good shape and physically and mentally in a good place. Unfortunately, I couldn't win it, but I didn't get pulled down by losing in the finals. I hope I can make a run here."

Six of the 29-year-old Federer’s Open Era record 11 grass-court titles have come at the All England Club, with victories over Mark Philippoussis in 2003, Andy Roddick in 2004-2005 and 2009, and Rafael Nadal in 2006-2007.

The Basel native is bidding to win his 17th Grand Slam championship, what would be his first since defeating Andy Murray in the 2010 Australian Open final. Three weeks ago, Federer finished runner-up to Nadal in the Roland Garros final, and, having injured his groin in Paris, did not play a grass-court event in preparation for Wimbledon for just the third time in his career.

Federer goes on to face Argentina’s David Nalbandian, against whom he has a 10-8 career record. It will be their first grass-court meeting.

Looking ahead to the clash, Federer said, "We had some really close matches, big matches actually against each other. I'm looking forward to that match. I think it's a wonderful third round. I wish I could have had an easier one maybe, but I know the danger against him. He can prove his point. If he's weaker or stronger than three years ago or eight years ago, we'll find out. But I'll be as well prepared as I can be and hope I can beat him."

Date: 24.06.2011, Source: ATP