Roger Federer makes winning start at NOVENTI OPEN Halle

Roger Federer is back to winning ways at this favoured grass-court event in Halle defeating Ilya Ivashka 7-6(4) 7-5.

One week after pulling out of the Roland Garros, Roger Federer is a match winner once more after defeating Ilya Ivashka 7-6(4) 7-5 in the first round of the NOVENTI OPEN in Halle. Federer played a very solid match against a tricky opponent and at times looked brilliant. Ivashka held his own for the majority of the opening set even forcing two break points while allowing none.

We ended up in the tiebreak where Federer finally found a way to break through the very solid Belarussian. Federer served well in the first set and controlled the tempo well with his forehand. He punished every shorter ball and looked to finish points quickly. His movement was sound and he was able to clinch the opening set tiebreak.

Everything went easier from there as Federer looked even better in the 2nd. His level was countered well by Ivashka who played well once again not allowing much with his great serving. Federer resorted not to push himself too much and waited patiently for a chance. At 5-4 in the 2nd set, he found a first match point but Ivashka saved it with a bit of luck.

At 6-5, Federer decided it was time to end it and quickly jumped out to 40-0. Ivashka saved the first two MP's but he could not save the 3rd and Federer closed it out at 7-5.