TIL Desk Sports/ The defending champions Switzerland and the runners-up Germany are a step closer to book their final rematch as both of them triumphed 3-0 in their respective debut against Britain and Spain at the Hopman Cup here on Sunday. Veteran Roger Federer claimed a commanding 6-1, 6-1 victory over 23-year-old Cameron Norrie to earn Switzerland a first point.
“I’m happy in all aspects of my game that things were working — foot work, offensive play, serve, return it was all there. It was a great match for me,” said Federer, who added a 20th Grand Slam trophy to his collection at the Australian Open in January this year.
Belinda Bencic stormed seven points in the tie-break of the second set to outclass Katie Boulter 6-2, 7-6. The Swiss pair combined for another 4-3, 4-1 win to claim a 3-0 sweep over the Brits in Group B. Switzerland will play the United States on the New Year’s Day, when Federer will play against Serene Williams in the mixed doubles. In a Group A clash earlier, world no. 2 Angelique Kerber beat Garbine Muguruza 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 to put Germany ahead, while snapping her five-match losing streak against the two-time Grand Slam winner.
