Roger Federer defeated Thiago Alves 6-3, 7-5, 6-4 in the second round of the US Open Friday as he attempts to salvage a season where he has yet to win on hardcourts.

Federer extended his US Open match streak to 29 victories dating back to the round of 16 in 2003 when he lost to David Nalbandian.

He hammered 19 aces and won 80 percent of his first serve points in the two hour, 14 minute match on the main Arthur Ashe Stadium.

"I was never really in danger, so it was actually pretty good for me," Federer said. "I knew the longer the match would go the more tired he would get."

Federer seeks to become the only player to win five or more successive titles at two separate Grand Slams. He has had just as much success at Wimbledon winning five straight beginning in 2003.

After a record 237 weeks as the world's number one, Federer lost his position to Rafael Nadal on August 18.

This is the first time since the 2004 Australian Open that the Swiss has not been the top seed at a Grand Slam.

He clinched Friday's match with a forehand flick from the baseline that sailed crosscourt, just catching the line.

"I served really well which is a big bonus," Federer said. "I am concentrating on my own game and physically I am fine."

Alves, who is ranked 137th in the world, challenged the call. He joked about it at the net with Federer while they waited for the replay. Alves didn't get the call he hoped for, but it kept him on the court for a few extra seconds with the man many considered to be one of the greatest players of all-time.

"I had never heard of him," Federer said of the 26-year-old Alves. "It was a difficult match so I am happy to be through.

"Players like that have nothing to lose so they start going for their shots."

Alves has reached the second round in both his appearances at the US Open. He also competed in the 2006 US Open.

It has been a rough year for Federer that was punctuated earlier this month when he lost the world number one ranking.

He did manage to win the gold medal in doubles at the Beijing Olympics with countryman Stanislas Wawrinka.

Federer, who has reached the semi-finals or better in 17 straight majors and remains two Grand Slam titles shy of tying Pete Sampras' all-time record of 14.

AFP

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