Flawless victory: Federer gets back on track with 13th win over Lopez

NEW YORK—Roger Federer’s 6-3, 6-3, 7-5 victory over Feliciano Lopez in the third round of the US Open maintained his unbeaten record against the hard-serving Spaniard, now an astonishing 13-0. But everywhere else on this rain-soaked evening, there was significant change.

Compared to 2007, the last time Federer and Lopez squared off in Flushing Meadows (also at night), there was something very different in Arthur Ashe Stadium: a roof. Built after a string of men’s finals were postponed to Mondays due to ill-timed rain, Federer lauded the tournament’s $100 million investment.

“It’s nice they added the roof,” said Federer, who went on to describe the costly inconveniences that a roof-less tournament had upon ticket-purchasing fans and broadcast rights holders from around the world.

“For you guys its rough [when it rained], so it’s a delight for us to enjoy the roof while it’s raining.”

Compared to Federer’s first two matches in Flushing Meadows this year, change was just as stark. Against Frances Tiafoe and Mikhail Youzhny, Federer’s serve was attacked, his backhand leaked errors and his energy was low. None of those things were true against Lopez. Federer was broken just once, won 85 percent of his first-serve points and actually out-aced his flame-throwing opponent, 13-9.

"I was happy I had good energy because I think that was my biggest worry," said Federer, "that somehow after the two five-setters that I had, I was going to feel a little slow, hard to throw the engine on, you know, that I would have to force myself so much, I would get tired from that."

Federer hit through his backhand with purpose, challenging Lopez to engage him in rallies, and he used his slice to both defend and attack with aplomb. And for the first time this Open, Federer actually looked like the leading man who relishes the opportunity to play in tennis’ largest stadium, and felt like the player who has continuously turned back the clock during this remarkable renaissance season.

“I played a very clean match, I couldn’t be happier,” the 36-year-old said to his legion of fans in attendance, including Hamilton playwright Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Facing Lopez has been tonic for Federer throughout his career, and he surely needed a confidence boost after two five-set scraps. While three lengthy day-session matches meant he didn’t take the court until after 9 p.m., it was worth the wait for Federer and his supporters, who were treated to a victory that was never in doubt, along with some circus shots that recalled his younger, practically invincible years.

But more important were the basics: after some concern about his health after two matches, Federer looked no worse for wear. His contact point also looked and sounded better. On television, with microphones on the ground and an enclosure above, the shotmaking acoustics were crisp, pleasurable to tennis aficionados and first-time viewers.

“Overall I felt better,” Federer said in press. “It’s exactly, I guess, what I needed going into the next round.”

The next round will see Federer face Philipp Kohlschreiber, who he’s beaten all 11 times they’ve played. That’s something Federer won’t want to change a bit.

Roger Federer's connection to New York City is unmistakable, both on and off the court. Before the US Open, TENNIS.com took a closer look at this unique bond between person and place through the eyes of celebrities, Federer's closest confidants and fans from around the five boroughs.

You can view all of our special Roger Federer & New York City content here.