Roger Federer creates new record in Wimbledon

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Roger Federer through to the second round of Wimbledon 2017. Image Source: twitter

Internet Desk: Seven-time champion Roger Federer started his journey for a record eighth Wimbledon title with an ease as his rival Alexandr Dolgopolov left the match in the second set. With this win Federer became the first player to win 85 matches at the All England Club, surpassing legendary Jimmy Connors.

No.3 seed Federer was 6-3, 3-0 ahead when Dolgopolov retired from the opener due to an ankle injury.

“It feels great to be back on Centre Court,” said Federer who recorded his 85th match win at the All England Club, passing the mark he shared with Jimmy Connors.

Dolgopolov had called his trainer at the end of set 1 and said that he has an ankle injury.

Ironically, three-time champion Novak Djokovic had earlier also benefitted from an early retirement when Slovakia’s Martin Klizan quit at 6-3, 2-0 down after 40 minutes.

“Clearly I was hoping that Alexandr was feeling better today but he’s had a rough one this year. He’s had to pull out of a lot of matches,” Federer said.

“He tried. For me obviously I’m very happy to be back and getting another win here is great news.”

The 35-year-old Federer, seeking a 19th Grand Slam title and bidding to become the oldest champion at the All England Club, played down the tag of favourite for a trophy he last lifted in 2012.

“Just because I haven’t played the clay court season doesn’t make me the favourite,” he said.

“You would think that somebody who has played well, like Rafa (Nadal) on the clay courts, he would be feeling really good about his chances here and I’m sure he does feel that way.

“The same for (defending champion) Andy Murray, same for Djokovic.

“Everybody’s got a chance to win Wimbledon and for me it’s no different. I already achieved my dream to be back here healthy. Now we’ll see how far I can go.”