DOHA, Qatar (AP) Roger Federer hit another between-the-legs winner en route to defeating qualifier Thomas Schoorel 7-6 (3), 6-3 at the Qatar Open in his first official match of the season.
After a sluggish first set, the No. 2-ranked Federer hit his stride. Leading 5-2 and faced with a ball that changed direction after clipping the net, Federer flicked it through his legs for a clean winner into the corner.
The 21-year-old Schoorel, playing only his second ATP-level match, managed a smile as the crowd applauded. The Dutch player went on to hold his serve before Federer sealed the win in the next game.
Federer has successfully pulled off the shot - also known as a ``tweener'' - four other times.
Next for Federer will be Marco Chiudinelli, who defeated Reda El Amrani 3-6, 7-6, 6-3.