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Federer eases past Devvarmen

ROGER Federer eased through to the second round at the Aviation Club in a late night match on Tuesday, in spite of a valiant effort from Indian wildcard Somdev Devvarmen.

The Swiss world number two began the night’s action as the firm favourite to progress at the expense of the unfancied – if popular – Devvarman, who hardly seemed overawed by the occasion.

In fact, the Commonwealth Games gold medallist seemingly relished the opportunity to pit his wits against the 16-time Grand Slam winner and the first five games went with serve in a settled start.

However, from 15-0 up in the sixth, Federer began to turn the screw with a backhand winner off a second serve and a Devvarman forehand then sailed wide.

A sliced Federer backhand then caught out an advancing Devvarman near the net for two break points and an unfortunate double fault gifted the number one-ranked player here a cushion.

Two service games were then exchanged before Federer fired down an ace and a blistering serve down the ‘T’ to close out the first set from 30-30.

Devvarman determinedly dug in at the onset of the second set and had two chances at 2-1 up to gain a two-game buffer.

Federer though fended off the danger and duly consolidated a break himself to move 4-2 ahead. Now sufficiently in charge, the 29-year-old had opportunities to close it out earlier in truth, but still prevailed 6-3, 6-3 after an hour and a quarter.

“It’s always pretty tough starting here in Dubai,” Federer explained. “You almost feel like you’re rusty, but you’re not. When the ball has a lot of topspin and you don’t quite catch it right, it flies out two metres. It can take away your confidence. It’s tricky.

“I’ve had some tough ones over the years here actually in the early rounds. That’s why I don’t judge my first rounds too harshly. I always expect tough matches in the first rounds.

“It’s about coming through and giving yourself a second chance the next day and then moving on in the draw.

“Then, if I’m in the quarters or the semis, that’s when I expect myself to play much better.”

Devvarman meanwhile admitted it was difficult to prevent a person he clearly holds in high regard from dominating once advantageous positions had been established in each set or if the mood just simply took him.

“Roger is my idol and one of the greatest players ever,” the 26-year-old admitted. “It’s not like he has too many weaknesses to exploit, so – when he feels like he’s on a roll – it’s really tough to stop him.

“Once he’s ahead, it’s so hard to play against him because he really has the freedom to play his shots and go after it.

“It’s definitely not easy, but it was a good experience for me. He’s a great champion and he’s won the tournament a few times. I’m fortunate to have played him. I gave it my best effort, but – unfortunately – I fell short today.”

alex@khaleejtimes.com