WIMBLEDON 2021: Roger Federer Creates Open Era Record To Set Up Cameron Norrie Showdown

Federer proceeded with his bid for a record-extending ninth Wimbledon title with a thorough straight-sets victory; the 39-year-old would take on Britain’s Cam Norrie next in the third round; Medvedev, Zverev, and Berrettini also advanced at the All England Club.

Eight-time winner Roger Federer strengthened a spot in the third round of Wimbledon for a record 18th time with a straight-sets win over two-time semi-finalist Richard Gasquet.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion recouped from a hesitant start to complete a resounding 7-6 (7-1) 6-1 6-4 victory on a sun-bathed Centre Court, to arrange a showdown against British No 2 Cam Norrie for a place in the fourth round.

Federer, featuring in just his tenth match in 19 months, endured a major panic in his opener against Adrian Mannarino, but he produced some vintage tennis in the latter stages against Gasquet to record a remarkable 103rd victory at the All England Club.

“I know Richard really well, we’ve played so many times against each other, he’s got such a wonderful backhand,” Federer reflected post-match.

“After he ripped that down the line, I thought maybe I can do something similar I’d be happy with, and after that, I got on a roll so I’m happy he inspired me on that shot.

Federer was uncharacteristically squandering in the opening stages, recording 12 unforced errors in the opening seven games.

However, after persisting in a one-sided tie-breaker, he started to dictate proceedings and dominated the 35-year-old Frenchman with his zeal and punishing groundstrokes.