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Returning this week after six months out of action, the Swiss
17-times grand slam champion beat Briton Dan Evans before
suffering a three-set loss to German teenager Alexander Zverev
at the mixed team event in Perth, Australia.
Federer's 58-minute masterclass against Frenchman Gasquet in
front of more than 13,000 spectators, however, should reassure
his fans ahead of the year's first grand slam at Melbourne Park
later this month.
"It was completely different to the previous two (matches)," the
35-year-old said after putting Switzerland 1-0 up against France
at the Perth Arena.
"Every opponent makes your life difficult in a different way,
trying to make it as hard as possible. Today was great, I had
many more swings on the ball...had a bit more time.
"It's the third match into the year, I started to feel the ball
better and better, and just moving around the court better.
"I'm surprised how I'm playing already. Could not be more happy
right now."
The former world number one has slipped to 16th in the rankings
but was happy with his form against Gasquet who is 18th on the
list.
"It's only the beginning, hopefully many more matches to come.
I'm just very pleased to be on a Centre court. I did enjoy the
last six months out, I enjoyed the last 18 years playing, so
I'll stay around for a little bit long, if I can."
(Reporting by Amlan Chakraborty in New Delhi; editing by Ed
Osmond)
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