WORLD number three Roger Federer continued his superb streak of the Australian Open, doing away with Serbian, Filip Krajinovic, 6-1 4-6 6-1 in just over an hour and a half of play. Federer turned up the heat on Krajinovic, using every ounce of his experience to stay in control of the Serbian who went to five sets on Tuesday in his opening match of the tournament. This win saw Federer’s 21st straight year heading into the Round of 32, proving he really is the greatest of all time, if not the most consistent.

Federer ran out victor in typical fashion, dominating the first set to set the tone for the match with Krajinovic unable to find much purchase against the Swiss star. Federer was stellar off the serve throughout, averaging a speed of 183kmh and collecting 12 aces. Krajinovic turned it on towards the middle of the first set, finally winning his first game almost 18 minutes into the match, though Federer used his depth and vision to well and truly outplay the talented young Serb. Federer took only 20 minutes to do away with the first set, despite plenty of early challenges by both players. Krajinovic was no slouch however, winning over 50 per cent of his first serve but let down with his second effort, dropping to only 20 per cent.

The match continued in similar fashion from then on, with Federer consolidating his first set effort with a 6-4 second set. Krajinovic added four more games to his tally and seemed to gain some real confidence off the small wins, using his service games to wrestle back an ounce of control. Krajinovic used his speed off the mark to find the ball to return, with Federer finding plenty of the tramlines to his own disbelief. Federer was classy as ever with composure to match, using his powerful hits to control the ball speed and maintain momentum. The Serbian was not about to let the match go that easily however, fighting for every last point to deny Federer an easy match.

Federer was not to be shaken, producing plenty of standout moments to bring some momentum into the third set, doing what he does best and forcing Krajinovic to the corners. With both players bringing plenty of flair to the court, the third set saw much the same as Federer looked to extend his lead despite some crafty points taken by the Serbian.

Midway through the third set Krajinovic requested a trainer to court making for an extended break and medical time-out before returning to the court, though it seems this did not have the desired effect with Federer picking up the next game with ease to go up 1-3 in the third and all but consolidating his straight sets victory.

Federer will take on Aussie fan favourite, John Millman in Round 3 after Millman downed 31st seed Hubert Hurkacz in straight sets.