Federer Produces Lethal Combination

They say it's better to be lucky than good. Roger Federer was both last night as he defeated Jurgen Melzer 6-3, 7-6(4), 6-3 to reach the quarter-finals of the US Open for the seventh consecutive year.

Federer outplayed the Austrian in the first set and then in the second-set tie-break he benefited from two lucky let cords to take a two-sets lead. A frustrated Melzer powered his way to a break in the first game of the third set but soon handed it back as Federer set sail for his fourth straight-sets victory of the tournament.

Federer advances to play Swede Robin Soderling, whom he defeated in four sets at this round of the US Open one year ago but whom he lost to in four sets at Roland Garros in June in their only meeting of 2010.

Federer reached his 26th consecutive Grand Slam quarter-final, just one shy of Jimmy Connors’ all-time record of 27.

"It was a tough match as it was breezy still," Federer said. "It was tough to play and he's a tough opponent who has done very well this season, so I am relieved to be through.

"I haven't lost a set so I am very happy. I'd like to play wonderfully every time but it's not possible, but I am finding a way to win."

Looking ahead to his meeting with Soderling, Federer said: "He's a great player. He's had an incredible last couple of years. He's always been a dangerous player but now he's able to do it consistently and he looks like finishing in the Top five."