MELBOURNE, January 16, 2018

2017 champion Roger Federer opened his title defence on Tuesday evening against Aljaz Bedene from Slovenia in the first night match on Rod Laver Arena. The 36-year-old Swiss is bidding for his sixth Australian Open title and his 20th Grand Slam title here.

Federer sent down 12 aces, winning 78 per cent of his first service points to secure a 6-3, 6-4, 6-3 in one hour and 40 minutes.

“I am hoping for another good year,” said Federer, who will next face Jan-Lennard Struff of Germany. “I am not sure it will go that well because I’m a year older, Rafa’s looking in tip-top shape and others guys are coming back.

“Last year was a fairytale and I can’t control everything. I am hoping to stay healthy and give myself chances and hope to play my very best in the big matches.”