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Roof stays open, Federer wins to start Wimbledon |
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Sports Posted On Tuesday, June 23, 2009 | Agencies
Wimbledon, June 23:
The new roof wasn't tested. Roger Federer was -- briefly. The retractable roof stayed opened Monday for the opening match on Centre Court at Wimbledon, and Federer fell behind early before charging past Yen-hsun Lee of Taiwan, 7-5, 6-3, 6-2.
Federer failed to convert his first four break-point chances, then lost serve to trail 3-2. But he immediately broke back, broke again in the final game of the first set and dominated from there.
Bidding for his sixth Wimbledon title, Federer won for the 41st time in his past 42 matches at the All England Club. The lone loss came in last year's final to Rafael Nadal, a match hailed by some as the sport's best ever.
Play began in cloudy but dry weather. When it rains, the translucent roof on the 87-year-old stadium will be closed so the match can continue.
Federer emerged sporting a sleek new white warm-up outfit with gold trim that included a jacket with a turned-up collar, a vest, slacks and two-toned shoes. The crowd roared when he walked onto the court, and he responded with a wave and smile. There were more cheers -- and a few whistles of approval -- when he removed his jacket to reveal the vest.
By the time the match started, Federer had stripped down to shorts and a short-sleeve shirt. He was given the honor of playing first on Centre Court after defending men's champion Nadal withdrew Friday because of sore knees.
The No. 2-seeded Federer is a strong favorite to win a record-breaking 15th major title.
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Friday, September 03, 2010