Roger Federer eased past Alexander Zverev 6-7(4) 6-2 6-0 to give Switzerland a 1-0 lead in the Hopman Cup Final.
Both men endured long service games at the start of the match as break point opportunities were created early on. Federer’s backhand and Zverev’s forehand was the battle within the war today as that would determine who would come out on top today,
The World number four looked in particular dominant on his first serve as he lost only one point in the first set on his first serve. The Swiss maestro looked to take the ball early however the German defended his serve well to prevent Federer from breaking serve.
Zverev saved break point in the 12th game to force a first set tiebreak and his strong character paid off as he grabbed the tiebreak 7-4 as Federer hit some uncharacteristic errors.
However the mental stability that Zverev showed in the first set, soon disappeared as he lacked concentration and was easily distracted in the next two sets.
After arguments with the Chair Umpire, Alison Hughes, Zverev never really recovered as Federer took full advantage displaying some exhibition tennis. The 19 time grand slam champion converted four of his five break point opportunities to level the match up at one set all.
The second set was just as convincing as Federer warned down the German physically and mentally as he broke twice in the final set. The world number two took full advantage of his opponent’s tactical frailties as he hit unbelievable drop shots and backhands.
Federer sealed victory on his third match point to seal victory and give Switzerland a 1-0 lead against Germany in the Hopman Cup final.
Federer and Zverev will have different Australian Open preparations next week as the Swiss maestro will head to Melbourne to tidy his game up before the defence of his title. While Zverev will play a fast4 event in Sydney, knowing that he needs to make serious improvements if he wants to go deep in Melbourne.
