Wimbledon 2019: Roger Federer into fourth round after routine win over Lucas Pouille

The eight-time Wimbledon champion secured a 7-5 6-2 7-6 victory on Centre Court

On a day that Rafael Nadal reaffirmed his title credentials with a commanding win over Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Roger Federer offered a timely reminder of the threat he still poses. His victory over Lucas Pouille – a 7-5 6-2 7-6 win here on Centre Court – may not have been as dominant, but it nonetheless showcased the Swiss’ talents in all their vintage glory.

Sweeping forehand winners, a razor-sharp service game and crisp-cool composure – the usual traits were there in a performance that, excusing the odd miss-hit here and there, was quintessential Federer.

To his credit, Pouille offered considerably greater resistance than Tsonga had earlier in the day. But after seeing his serve broken in the 12th game of the first set, there was an air of inevitability to the occasion as the eight-time Wimbledon champion strengthened his grip on the match.

Indeed, having finally broken his opponent, Federer struck again moments later on Pouille’s first serve of the second set, sealing the break with a forehand winner.

Pouille immediately broke back but it did little to deter the Swiss. At 5-2, with his opponent on serve, Federer returned the favour, sending over a smashed forehand into the Frenchman who, from the net, was unable to clear the white tape with a meek defensive volley.

That was the second set in the bag and another step closer towards victory.

After such disappointment, Pouille rallied in the face of Federer’s class – indeed, he delivered 38 winners in total, just one shy of the Swiss’ haul – and confidently held throughout the third set to take it to a tie-break, which the Swiss duly won 7-4.

The No 2 seed will now face Italy’s Matteo Berrettini in the fourth round of the Championships.