Roger Federer eases into Australian Open fourth round with straight sets win over Taylor Fritz

Unstoppable: Roger Federer is yet to drop a set as he aims to defend his Australian Open crown.
AFP/Getty Images
Joe Krishnan18 January 2019

Roger Federer continued his strong defence of his Australian Open title with a straight sets victory over Taylor Fritz.

Federer swept aside the challenge of the young American despite an admiral performance in the second set, winning 6-2, 7-5, 6-2 at the Rod Laver Arena.

The seven-time Australian Open winner needed just 20 minutes to brush aside Fritz in the first set.

But in the second set, the 21-year-old came to life and missed the opportunity to break Federer at 4-4.

That proved pivotal when the Swiss legend took advantage of a break and finally down the 21-year-old in the second set.

Fritz continued to highlight his potential with a number of powerful winners and hit the second-fastest serve at the tournament, clocked at 138mph.

But it wasn't enough as Federer completed yet another match without dropping a set to set up a fourth round clash with Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Speaking after the match, Federer tipped Fritz for a bright future in the game after an impressive display.

"I wanted to get out of the blocks quickly," he said.

"I was aware of the threat of Taylor and the velocity of his serve. I had to really focus today to make sure I got off to a good start.

"The second set was tight, it was tough. He protected the serve well, we had some tough points and it was close at the end.

"I had a good feeling against someone who is going to be very dangerous in the future and wish him all the best."

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