Roger Federer to Continue the wait for First Italian Open title

ROGER Federer's first match after the birth of his twin sons ended in defeat as he lost 1-6 6-3 7-6 (8-6) to Jeremy Chardy at the Italian Open in Rome. The 32-year-old Swiss had been expected to miss the event, but was convinced to take part by his wife and support team. Federer had a match point in the final tie-break of the second-round match, but a superb forehand pass from Frenchman Chardy denied him victory.

"This defeat is totally OK if it doesn't hurt," said Federer.

"I tried everything. I can't do more than that on the court."
World number one Rafael Nadal was taken to three sets by France's Gilles Simon but triumphed 7-6 (1) 6-7 (4) 6-2, while sixth seed Tomas Berdych of the Czech Republic beat Russia's Dmitry Tursunov 6-4 6-3.
Women's top seed Serena Williams beat Andrea Petkovic 6-2 6-2 in the American's first match since suffering a thigh injury in Madrid. Maria Sharapova also progressed with a 6-3 7-5 victory against Monica Puig of Puerto Rico.
Federer will get an unexpectedly quick opportunity to reunite with his family and will not play again before the French Open, which begins on 25 May.