by Our Sports Desk

Roger Federer began his latest quest for a record eighth Wimbledon title in style by brushing aside Paolo Lorenzi in straight sets.

The Swiss grass-court master failed to reach the quarter-finals of a grand slam for the first time in a decade last summer in London, bombing out in the second round to Ukrainian Sergiy Stakhovsky.

The 32-year-old offered Italian Lorenzi zero chance of an upset at the All England Club yesterday though, easing through 6-1 6-1 6-3 in one hour and 33 minutes.

Federer was champion in 2012, seeing off Andy Murray for his seventh triumph.

Just six weeks shy of turning 33, Federer launched this year’s tilt at history confident but untested, his evergreen craft and guile still decisive.

The 17-time grand slam winner still harbours the clear desire to surpass Pete Sampras’ seven Wimbledon victories but while the challenges ahead will rise dramatically, this was a comfortable opening.

After claiming the title at Halle this month, he made short work of world number 83 Lorenzi, who remains without a main-draw singles victory at a grand slam event after 13 attempts.

Federer wasted little time hitting his Wimbledon stride, stalking Court One with trademark panache and verve — claiming the first set in 25 minutes.

The unfazed All England Club favourite broke Lorenzi twice in the opening exchange, firing an ace to seal the set after surviving three break points in the seventh game.

Federer’s control hardly wavered, as he registered three service breaks to claim the second set with ease.

The decorated former champion wasted four match points in failing to steal a second break in the final set.

Summoning all his experience though, Federer served out for victory — typically closing with an ace.

“Getting the first one out of the way is always a good feeling,” said Federer.

“I thought I played well, got a lot of breaks and served well.

“Walking down the tunnel I felt relaxed and happy to go on court but once you step out there you are ready and you do feel some pressure.”

Federer praised his opponent who is yet to win a grand slam match in 13 attempts. 

“I didn’t know about his record beforehand,” he said. “I thought he did a good job by trying to serve and volley and make the plays but he maybe doesn’t have a strong enough serve to do that.”