Hopman Cup: Rogers Federer's magical comeback

Away from the courts for 178 days, Roger Federer signed a return to business both winning and probing in Perth against Daniel Evans (6-3 6-4 in one hour).

(Ats) Honored as a real rock star at the entrance on the court by the 12'000 spectators - one wonders if Bruce Springsteen will be entitled to such a welcome on January 22 in this same Perth Arena - Seven Grand Slam titles quickly emerged from his racket of magnificent blows.

After starting the game on an ace, Roger Federer thus slid a superb passing in forehand along the line in the fourth game to get his first break of the evening. A 3-2 30-30, it was, then, a marvel of damping on a volley in forehand that offered him a third ball of break, the good this time. The "Federer Express" was back on track. Daniel Evans did not hold the shock until four games. In the second set, the Baloise signed the break at the beginning of the game to drive the nail.

Roger Federer, on Monday in Perth, found the first answers he had hoped for. He was the only one to beat Stan Wawrinka at the last US Open. No, he is not "rusty" as he feared. Yes, his game is always endowed with this same punch as years pass and that the wounds that could have undermined it have not altered. This concern to always advance thanks to its ability to accelerate in forehand remains its trademark.

After bringing this first point to Switzerland to offer Belinda Bencic the opportunity to conclude victoriously this first match of chicken against Heather Watson, Roger Federer will have the opportunity to rise on Wednesday before Alexander Zverev and Friday against Richard Gasquet . Attention, the Biterrois is in shape as highlights his victory 7-5 6-3 Monday earlier in the day ahead of Zverev.