Roger Federer hits hot dog lob on way to Third Round

Roger Federer has eased his way into the Third Round of Wimbledon. Despite the apparent threat that big serving American Sam Querrey could pose, in the end it was the 7 time Wimbledon champion who was digging into his bag of tricks in a straight sets win.

The importance of weathering an imposing start from Querrey was not lost on anyone inside Centre Court, not least Federer himself, letting out an uncharacteristically loud roar after breaking. Clearly aware that Querrey is a form player, he did well to extinguish any hope from the outset.

Once Federer got into his stride, his shots began to flow and remarks were made that it was close to the best tennis of his career. Whilst that make seem somewhat too far to stretch things, it really was a virtuoso performance, as he tore Querrey apart piece by piece.

If anyone was unsure of his current confidence levels, an audacious hot dog lob attempt had Querrey scrambling backwards in amazement. It was a new shot, even for Federer fans, but one that was in keeping with the brilliance he had brought to the court in the second round.

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Whilst Murray and Djokovic loom large in the distance as semi and final opponents, Federer must be happy at the way his path to the latter stages is unfolding. He has been totally untroubled so far and continues to avoid a seeded opponent in Round Three.

Sam Groth may wield one of the fastest serves on tour, but the way Federer has been returning is recent weeks suggests that this will be another routine win. Looking further ahead, Feliciano Lopez was the highest seed in the section, but he fell to Nikoloz Basilashvili in five sets.

It leaves a likely fourth round tie with Roberto Bautista Agut, who again will not cause Federer to have sleepless nights. In recent years Federer has looked somewhat vulnerable in the early rounds of majors, at least more so than at his peak, but this year is air of dominance seems to have returned.

The quarter final stage is where things are guaranteed to heat up. Thomas Berdych and Gilles Simon are both potential opponents who have caused Federer trouble in the past and have grass court pedigree. Not only that, but both men have been in great form in 2015.

Excitement is certainly building that Federer could go all the way this year, but negotiating the first week is only a small part of what is a mammoth task. If he can maintain his aggression, he will always be a match for anyone on the grass of Wimbledon.

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