Chronicle Editor
Eight-time champion Roger Federer continued his dominance over France’s Richard Gasquet to set up a Wimbledon third-round meeting with British number two Cameron Norrie.
Federer, 39, extended his winning record over 35-year-old Gasquet to 19-2 with a 7-6 (7-1) 6-1 6-4 victory.
Norrie reached the last 32 for the first time with a 6-3 6-1 6-2 win against Australian wildcard Alex Bolt.
“I hope the crowd gets into it,” said sixth seed Federer on facing Norrie. “I understand if they cheer for him and if it is for me it is because of the last 20 years and all the big wins I’ve had here.
“Cam is a good guy, he’s had a great year and played well at Queen’s, backing that up here.”
Then the Swiss quipped: “But enough now — I hope he goes out!”
Norrie, 25, has been one of the leading players on the ATP Tour this year, demonstrating his form and ability earlier on Thursday in front of an impressed home crowd on Court One.
The 29th seed lost the first three games against Bolt before winning 11 in a row to turn the contest around. Norrie broke twice more in the final set and was given a standing ovation after clinching victory. When asked about the possibility of playing 20-time Grand Slam champion Federer, Norrie joked: “Come on Gasquet!”
Whether serious or not, Norrie did not get his wish but looks sure to give Federer a tough test on Saturday. — BBC Sport
Online Reporter