Melbourne : World number three Roger Federer produced an imperious form as he raced into the second round of the Australian Open by claiming a straight-set sumptuous victory over Nikoloz Basilashvili of Georgia on Monday.
The Swiss maestro swept Basilashvili aside 6-2, 6-1, 6-2 in a thrilling opening round that lasted for one hour and 12 minutes.
With the win, Federer has now set up his second round clash with 35th-ranked Ukrainian Alexandr Dolgopolov, against whom he has won both of their last encounters.
Meanwhile, controversial Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has also progressed through to the next round by thrashing Pablo Carreno of Spain 6-2, 7-5, 6-2. (ANI)