Federer deals easily with Minar obstruction

A RUTHLESS Roger Federer began his US. Open defence with a 61-minute, 6-1 6-1 6-1 thrashing of Ivo Minar.

Federer, the overwhelming favourite for the men’s title, won his 29th consecutive match on a hard court by completely outclassing the Czech.

Despite playing only one tournament since completing a hat-trick of Wimbledon titles in July, the Swiss top seed looked in peak form from the start, lashing forehand winners at will.