Federer gets back on track
Roger Federer made his Estoril debut count, beating Olivier Rochus in the first round. The match wasn’t all smooth sailing for the world #1, as Rochus took the opening set 6-4. Federer was able to rebound, wining the next two sets 6-3, 6-2 and advancing to the second round. The big difference in this match was Federer’s 17 aces to Rochus’ 1. Where Federer struggled, was capitalizing on break chances. He had 13 break opportunities and only converted on three of them. This is a lower percentage than we have become accustomed to from the Fed.
Federer, don’t forget, is working with a new coach this week in Jose Higueras. This could be a very beneficial relationship, especially during the clay-court season (because of Higueras’ expertise on the dirt). Next up for FedEx will be Victor Hanescu, who beat another Olivier Patience 4-6, 6-3, 6-2. Federer is 2-0 against Hanescu, but the two haven’t met since 2005.
