NEW YORK – Roger Federer has defeated Philipp Kohlschreiber to reach the last-16 of the US Open.
The five-time champion and world No.2 eased to a 6-3 6-4 6-4 victory over his 29th-ranked German opponent.
The 34-year-old Swiss star, hoping to become the oldest champion since Ken Rosewall in 1970, will next face US 13th seed John Isner, who progressed after Czech opponent Jiri Vesely retired with a neck injury after dropping the first two sets.
Federer has now reached the fourth round in New York for the 15th year as he looks to return to the final for the first time since 2009.
His win was only marred by him dropping serve for the first time since Wimbledon.
“I won the big points today, I served well when I had to, even though it was up and down for both of us,” said Federer, who will take a 4-1 career lead over Isner into their fourth-round clash.
“He stood far back to return so I had to do a reset in my mind. Philipp’s a great player.
“I have practised with him tons so I know how tough he is.”
Federer also avoided falling out of the tournament as long-time rival Rafael Nadal had done on Friday night in the Spaniard’s earliest exit in New York in 10 years.
