Seven time winner and the often heralded 'Greatest of All Time', Roger Federer, eased himself onto the delicate green of the Wimbledon lawns, as he easily overcame the fruitless challenge of Paolo Lorenzi to claim his place in the second round.  Hoping to finally overtake Pete Sampras and become the most successful Wimbledon Champion ever, the Swiss number two wasted little time in announcing his 2014 title challenge. 

It proved to be an easy afternoon's work for Federer, who barely broke sweat against the easy challenge of Lorenzi, who has yet to win a Grand Slam match at the twelvth attempt.  Racing through the first two sets in no time at all, to the loss of just two games, Federer was rarely tested in a match he was able to play in first gear. 

'I thought I played very well, served well and overall I am very happy.'    He told the BBC after the match.  '[I'm] clearly not just trying to win the first round, not underestimating anyone, but here to win the tournament.'

And the man who is now coached by former Wimbleon specialist, Stefan Edberg, looked it fully utilise the guru's teachings, as he sought to reach the net whenever the opportunity arose, winning 26 of his 36 dashes toward the frightened eyes of Lorenzi. 

And there was an icy air of determination in the play of Federer today, who barely gave his opponent an inch, and when asked if he felt sorry for Lorenzi, he could barely hide his resentment at such a claim. 

As he sealed the match on an ace, he will now go on to face the winner of the interesting contest between Gilles Muller and Julien Benneteau, in what will no doubt prove a far sterner test for the Swiss Maestro, who will have to call upon all of the grit he displayed today if he is to finally brush aside Pete Sampras and take his place in the undisputed Wimbledon throne.  

Result

[4] R Federer d. P Lorenzi 61 61 63

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About the author
Jack Haugh
Freelance sports writer, specialising in tennis.