Federer ready for Nishikori Open rumble

Roger Federer says he’s ready for an Australian Open showdown with fifth seed Kei Nishikori following his high-intensity third-round tune-up.

The legendary Swiss steamrolled Czech Tomas Berdych in quick time on Friday night, startling even himself with his precision play.

After a six-month layoff from knee surgery, Federer wasn’t sure if he was ready to compete strongly against top-seeded players at Melbourne Park.

Against Berdych, he got his answer.

“I guess I’m ready now,” he said, almost laughing at his dominant performance.

The gushing reaction to Federer’s performance from a capacity Rod Laver Arena crowd said a lot.

The world’s press added to the praise.

The Telegraph of London said the 17-time major winner “simply dissected Berdych with the ease of a biology student pulling apart one of his white mice”.

Sports Illustrated said Federer “didn’t so much play against Berdych as he played with him”.

The New York Times saw a “trademark blend of deftness and punch, flowing to the ball wherever it bounced and then striking it with precision and a dash of venom”.

Federer’s showing has raised expectations of a quarter-final meeting with world No.1 Andy Murray.

And then perhaps a semi-final with compatriot Stan Wawrinka.

But for all of the praise and before any of the hypotheticals become real, Federer will need to adapt his game to play Nishikori and make the last eight.

The all-action Japanese no.1 is more defence-oriented than Berdych, and has a supporter in Federer.

“He has maybe the best backhand in the business now – I’ve got my work cut out,” the 35-year-old said.

“He’s definitely played better and more tennis in recent months.

“I’m a big fan of his game.

“I love how he can crush it down the line or crosscourt. He’s got wonderful second-serve returns. He’s fast on his legs. Strong in his mind.

“I know how tough he is as the match goes along. He finds his range and his rhythm, he’s tough to stop.

“We had a great match at the World Tour Finals a bit over a year back.

“I’ve lost to him a couple of times as well. I’m aware of the big test for me.”

Nishikori returned the love to Federer, agreeing the match would be a terrific contest.

“I’m just happy to play him because I think we need him on the tour. I’m happy to see him back 100 per cent,” he said.

“It’s not going to be easy. He was playing great tennis … it’s a big challenge for me.”

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