Rochus, the world number 77 who stands only 5ft 6in tall, forced Federer into long rallies and was frequently rewarded with mistakes from his more exalted opponent.

But Federer - whose serve (with 17 aces) was a vital weapon throughout - found a little more poise from the start of the second set and was rarely troubled after breaking Rochus.

That said, there was little to suggest that his new partnership with Spanish clay-court coach Jose Higueras would necessarily provide him with his first tournament success of the year.

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