Roger Federer ‘blissful’ after winning opener at Swiss Indoors

Swiss Roger Federer smiles after defeating French Adrian Mannarino on October 21, 2013 at the Swiss Indoors ATP tennis tournament in Basel.

17-time Grand Slam Champion Roger Federer is idyllic after pulling off his first-round encounter of the Swiss Indoors 500, beating Adrain Mannarino 6-4, 6-2 in straight sets, here in Basel.

“I think it was a pretty good performance for a first round,” said Federer.  ”I had some good spells and some that were tougher. I fought through and stayed positive throughout. I kept playing aggressive, the way I would like to play for the week.

“Clearly I want to do really well here. It all kind of started here for me. It’s very special for me. I just need to be careful I don’t put too much pressure on myself. But ever since I was able to win the tournament here in 2006 for the first time, that pressure has kind of gone. Now, it’s about enjoying it.”

The Swiss maestro has had a dip in his form, winning just one tournament in Halle this season. Federer will look to make a mark in Basel, through which he can see himself meet the criteria for London qualification.