Former Australian Open champion Roger Federer was almost sent packing on the third round by a known opponent, John Millman, however, Federer held his breath to win the match in the final set tie-break.
Federer’s game was below par today having set that Millman who has already defeated Federer two years ago in the US Open was showing some class and took the first set.
His home crowd had his back and he pushed Federer in the second set as well. However, Federer came good at the right time to win the set in a tie-breaker. Later, he managed to pick up, win the third set.
When everyone thought it was over, Millman came back stronger, took the fourth set and broke Federer early in the fifth.
Federer broke back and produced some brave shots to stay in the game whenever it was needed and pushed it to the tie-breaker. He did miss a lot though, especially having Millman 0-30 twice.
During the ten-point tie-breaker, Federer looked down and out whereas, Millman was at his best, especially with those passing shots to go 8-4.
Federer switched to defence, made sure to stay in the point as much as possible and pressured Millman who started to make errors at the wrong time. Federer slowly climbed the ladder, went on to win the tie-breaker.
Possibly, one of the best matches he has ever played. What a match!
Federer wins by 4-6, 7-6(2), 6-4, 4-6, 7-6(10-8)
He also becomes the first ATP player to win 100 matches in two different Grand Slams. He has done it in Wimbledon, he has done it here today.
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