Tennis news - 'It's like playing a mirror' - Federer into third round after tough Dan Evans test

ByBen Grounds

Updated 16/01/2019 at 08:16 GMT

Dan Evans reached two tie-breaks but ultimately fell to a straight-sets defeat to defending champion Roger Federer in the second round of the Australian Open.

[WATCH AUSTRALIAN OPEN LIVE ON EUROSPORT AND EUROSPORT PLAYER]

Evans was a brave competitor, providing a mix of skills similar to the Swiss' own, but Federer eventually prevailed 7-6 (7-5) 7-6 (7-3) 6-3 in an entertaining contest on Wednesday.

Having thrashed Denis Istomin in his Melbourne Park opener, third seed Federer encountered far stiffer resistance against the determined world number 189 Evans, who is rebuilding his career after missing a year due to a doping suspension.

ATP Miami

Fired up Evans brightens up 'tragic year' with comeback win over Sonego

21/03/2024 at 22:51

Evans broke Federer for the first time in the tournament to drag the second set into a tie-break but the Swiss was supreme on the clutch points at Rod Laver Arena.

He broke Evans in the fourth game of the third set and closed out the match with an imperious backhand winner down the line to set up a clash with Taylor Fritz after he beat Gael Monfils in four sets.

Following his win, the 20-time Grand Slam champion was very complimentary of his opponent, saying: "I think I couldn't pull away early in the match, I might have had that midway through the second set but he played very well.

Federer 'very happy' to beat Serena in doubles, despite her 'aura'

"It was hard to pull away and credit to him. I thought I played well. The first set was big, I was happy to win that.

It feels like playing a mirror a little bit and that was my mindset going in. He has a lot of slice and more serve and volley, my size can help me a bit more.

It was an indication of the quality on show that Evans won 12 games in the opening two sets against the Swiss, but still found himself two sets down.

It was not Federer's most polished display, but the third set was a procession as the defending champion broke Evans in his first game and his serve then only got stronger with the finish line in sight.

Davis Cup

Great Britain face Argentina, Canada and Finland in Davis Cup group stage

19/03/2024 at 17:03

Tennis

Alcaraz, Sinner 'already announcing themselves' as 'superstars,' says Federer

15/03/2024 at 17:25

ATP Indian Wells

Federer calls on Tsitsipas to 'take it to next level' and bounce back from dip in form

14/03/2024 at 09:37