Roger Federer makes winning return at Cincinnati Masters

Defending champion Roger Federer got his bid for a seventh Cincinnati Masters title up and running with a 6-4 6-4 victory over Roberto Bautista Agut of Spain.

It was Federer's first match since his loss to Novak Djokovic in the Wimbledon final a month ago but he did not appear to be too rusty, wrapping up victory in an hour and nine minutes.

The world No 3 sent down six aces and did not face a break point all match, winning 95 per cent of the points on his first serve as he set up a third round clash against either Kevin Anderson or Jack Sock.

Federer, who could face Rafael Nadal if both players reach the last eight, hit 24 winners in the contest, and, although he only converted two of his 10 break points, one in each set proved sufficient.

The Swiss great adopted his usual attacking style, regularly moving in to the net, and pointed out that his experience allows him to hit the ground running after a break from the game.

Federer said: "It's been a while since I've had a match.

"So that's what gets you in a different mood, different thinking. You know, I can switch it on very quickly. I only need literally like 10 minutes to really get ready for the match.

"I have things in mind to work on for the hard-court season.

"Number one, you have to be fit and tough, because you can stop on a dime and move in the other direction, which on other surfaces is not so easy to do."

Sixth seed Tomas Berdych is also through, having posted a comfortable 6-2 6-3 victory over Thomaz Bellucci.

Live ATP Masters Tennis

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