Djokovic, Federer ease through Dubai openers

 

Originally published on: 23/02/11 12:22

Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer both made winning starts in Dubai – to the tune of 6-3 6-3 scorelines –  where both are targeting a repeat of their past triumphs in the U.A.E capital.

Federer overcame Somdev Devvarman, while defending champion Djokovic defeated Michael Llodra in just 63 minutes.

“I didn’t know how I’m going to start the tournament after three weeks of not playing an official match,” admitted the Serb, who was happy with his opening match. “I was managing to return a lot of balls back and making him play an extra shot.”

Federer was equally satisfied with his opening performance, particularly given that he had lost in the first round (to Andy Murray) in his last match in Dubai in 2008.

“I think it’s always pretty tough starting here in Dubai,” he said. “The ball flies quite a bit.

“Even me who’s practiced here so many times and been here a week now, you almost feel like you’re rusty but you’re not. You know, when the ball has a lot of topspin and you don’t quite catch it right, it flies out two meters.”

Check out the snaps of the day two action here

Now get the WORLD’S BEST TENNIS MAGAZINE here