MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Roger Federer overpowered Belgium's Xavier Malisse 6-3 6-3 6-1 to reach the fourth round of the Australian Open in dazzling sunshine Friday.
The defending Melbourne champion, who suffered a scare in the previous round, had too many weapons for Malisse, sweeping through in an hour and 45 minutes.
Signs of the chinks that showed in Federer's armour for much of last year remain, however, as the Swiss maestro made 36 unforced errors, including two mis-hit smashes.
The 16-times grand slam winner raised his game when it mattered, sealing victory with a trademark whipped forehand down the line, encapsulating perfectly the gulf in class.
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