Federer powers into the quarter-finals

Australian Open
Roger Federer watches on

Defending champion Roger Federer reached the Australian Open quarter-final for a record 14th time with a straight sets win over Martin Fucsovics on Monday.

The 36-year-old beat Fucsovics 6-4, 7-6, 6-2 in just over two hours on Rod Laver Arena to become the oldest man to reach the last eight since Ken Rosewall (43 years, 59 days) in 1977.

The Hungarian didn’t trouble the 19-time Grand Slam winner and Federer has reached the quarters by winning 12 consecutive sets in the tournament.

Federer will take on Tomas Berdych for a place in the semi-finals after the Czech saw off Fabio Fognini in straight sets.

“He’s playing really well, standing up in the court hitting the big shots,” the Swiss veteran said. “I’m pleased he’s back playing because he had some back issues which slowed him down last year, including in the Laver Cup actually – believe it or not.

“It’s nice to see him back, and we – well I – had a good match against him last year so I’m sure he now wants to do it the other way round and get the win.”

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