Eight-time Wimbledon Champion Roger Federer has kicked-off his 2018 campaign with a 6-1, 6-3, 6-4, win over Dusan Lajovic. Although the main talking point of the match was what he was wearing.
The Swiss 36-year-old walked onto Centre Court wearing the UNIQLO label on his t-shirt. Confirming after recent speculation that has has agreed a new contract with the Japanese company. Earlier this year Federer’s decade-long contract with Nike experienced in March. No financial details have been officially provided about the deal, although one ESPN source claims it could be worth as much as $300 million over 10 years. UNIQLO is projected to raise $29 billion in revenue by 2020. What is even more intriguing is the reported clause that says Federer will still be paid regardless of if he plays or not.
“I am deeply committed to tennis and winning championships. A bit like UNIQLO, I also have a love for life, culture and humanity. We share a strong passion to have a positive impact on the world around us and look forward to combining our creative adventures.” Federer said in a statement.
UNIQLO is honoured to welcome Roger Federer as our new Global Brand Ambassador!#UniqloRF #Uniqlo #LifeWear #RogerFederer #Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/Xn4R4H4GVV
— UNIQLO UK (@UNIQLO_UK) July 2, 2018
At the All-England Club it was a near-perfect performance to coincide with the announcement. The top seed was in clinical form against Lajovic. Making the world No.57 look somewhat ordinary on the premier court of the tournament. Winning 83% of his service points and hitting 35 winners to only 16 unforced errors.
“I’m very happy. I felt good from the start, which was nice. This was not the case against him (Lajovic) last year (at Wimbledon). I remember I struggled against him a lot early on.” Federer told the BBC.
“I felt at home again and it was a really nice feeling. I got the early break in each set and then I was able to bring it home. I’m very happy with my focus, as well as, point-to-point mentality. “
During the opening set, Federer lost just three points behind his serve. Putting all the pressure onto Lajovic. Racing to a double break advantage on his way to a 5-1 lead, Federer finally encountered some stern resistance. Some clever play from the Serbian saw him valiantly fend off a trio of set points. Nevertheless, Federer refused to let his momentum be halted. Hitting a forehand winner that painted the baseline on his fourth set point to clinch the opening set.
Federer’s ability to dictate play and bully his opponent around the court continued. Claiming the first three games of set number two before Lajovic finally ended the streak. Unfortunately for the Serbian he lacked the tools to tame Federer’s approach to the match on a consistent basis. Enabling the Swiss No.1 to move two sets up after just 49 minutes of play.
Strolling towards his 92nd win in the tournament, Federer refused to take his foot off the pedal. Breaking once more to close in on the win at the start of the third frame. Admirably Lajovic kept fighting, but it only delayed the inevitable. After just 79 minutes of play, Federer sealed the win after a lob from his opponent landed out.
“I’m very happy to be playing in front of my children. It is probably the most special thing for me.” The world No.2 reflected afterwards.
“It doesn’t matter who else is in the stadium, if the kids are there it’s very exciting.
“I get amazing fan support around the world. If I am still playing today, it is because of the fans.” He added.
Federer will play either Lukas Lacko or Benjamin Bonzi in the second round.
