There was mutual respect at the end between Evans and Federer, who have a similar style Mark Schiefelbein/APBritish representation in this year’s Australian Open men’s singles draw came to an end this morning as Dan Evans was outmanoeuvered by Roger Federer in a delightful second-round match in the Rod Laver Arena. Many of the 15,000 spectators would not have expected such a competitive encounter between Evans, the world No 189, and Federer, the 20-times grand-slam champion, when they took their seats, but they were in for a treat. Both players showcased their deft touch and variety, with Federer eventually prevailing 7-6 (7-5), 7-6 (7-3), 6-3 in two hours and 35 minutes. Evans’ ranking belies his talent. The 28-year-old is working his way back up the list after his 12-month suspension for taking cocaine came to an end last April, and will move…

Source: The Times January 16, 2019 07:38 UTC