Federer sweeps past Soderling

Roger Federer took a step nearer history when he moved imperiously into the third round of Wimbledon today.

The defending champion, who is bidding to become the first man since William Renshaw in the 19th Century to win the men’s singles six times in a row, defeated Sweden’s Robin Soderling 6-3 6-4 7-6 (7/3) in a Centre Court match which was rarely more than routine.