Advertisement

Federer rival hailed after 'match of his life'

British qualifier Dan Evans has won a legion of new fans after going down to Roger Federer in the “match of his life” on Wednesday.

The 28-year-old pushed the 20-time grand slam champion for two thrilling sets, before the Swiss maestro’s class eventually prevailed.

‘GIANT KILLER’: Aussie youngster’s huge upset leaves fans in a spin

‘I’LL KNOCK HIM OUT’: Shock details emerge in Hewitt-Tomic feud

‘WHAT DO YOU WANT?’: Kyrgios in bizarre exchange with journo over Hewitt ‘rift’

Federer sealed his passage into the third round courtesy of the 7-6 (7-5) 7-6 (7-3) 6-3 win but even he wouldn’t have expected a straight sets triumph to be so tricky.

Evans gave Federer a real run for his money. Pic: Getty
Evans gave Federer a real run for his money. Pic: Getty

Evans actually got a mini break up on Federer in the first set tiebreak and had two points on his own serve to take a stunning advantage in the match.

However, as he has done on countless occasions before, Federer found a way to turn the tables on his opponent – storming back to claim the opening set.

Evans again pushed the Swiss in the second set, breaking the Swiss late on before forcing another tiebreaker.

This time the Swiss ace had his measure, taking it comfortably 7-3 to take a to sets to love lead.

The Swiss great, chasing his seventh title at Melbourne Park, rounded out the rare day appearance with a customary straight sets win.

However, it was the world No.189 who legions of supporters were gushing over, after his fighting performance.

Federer overcame some clunky moments and a weather issue prior to the match, before booking his spot in the third round.

The Swiss great aimed a terse remark at chair umpire Marijana Veljovic when she asked whether the court was playable after a few drops of rain late in the first set, saying “it’s always playable until a leg gets broken. I’d rather wait a little bit”.