Cool Federer Sweeps Into Open Round Two

Switzerland’s Roger Federer hits a return against Uzbekistan’s Denis Istomin during their men’s singles match on day one of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne on January 14, 2019. WILLIAM WEST / AFP

Ageless Roger Federer warmed up for a run at a record seventh Australian Open title Monday by breezing past Uzbek Denis Istomin in straight sets to book a spot in the second round.

The 37-year-old Swiss master made light of his assignment on Rod Laver Arena to wrap up the match 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 as he confidently began the defence of his title