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.
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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 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.
WHAT A SET
Evans proved he was up to it, but Federer found a way as always.
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FOLLOW LIVE: https://t.co/d5QpFbqFD5 #9WWOS #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/VFPUHoT6QD— Wide World of Sports (@wwos) January 16, 2019
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.
Great effort from Dan Evans, wish him all the best in future.#AusOpen
— Abdulla (@TheAbdulla7) January 16, 2019
Dan Evans just played the match of his life. #AusOpen
— Imran ✍🏽 (@ImrnHdr) January 16, 2019
Not without some anxious moments but Federer through in straight. 7-6 7-6 6-3. Gutsy Dan Evans deserved a set. #AusOpen
— Neil McMahon (@NeilMcMahon) January 16, 2019
Congrats Dan Evans you gave it everything #AUSOPEN onward and upwards #AustralianOpen
— QQ ® (@CypressRozay) January 16, 2019
Dan Evans! 👏🏻 good fight.
— Magnifico (@VishakhaRF) January 16, 2019
Roger Federer beats Dan Evans 7-6 7-6 6-3, very attractive match and a reminder of the abundant natural talent Evans possesses.
— Mike Dickson (@Mike_Dickson_DM) January 16, 2019
Big respect to Dan Evans, love his attitude throughout this match, always giving it all and chilled given the opposition he is playing, what a bloke. #AusOpen
— Robin George (@Roxemm) January 16, 2019
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”.
