World No 8 Roger Federer on Thursday defeated France’s Richard Gasquet 7-6 (7/1), 6-1, 6-4 to advance to Wimbledon’s last 32 for the 18th time in his career. In doing so, the 39-year-old became the oldest man in 46 years to reach the grass tournament’s third round. 

Federer, who has eight Wimbledon titles, beat Gasquet for the 19th time in 21 meetings and will take on Cameron Norrie of Britain for a place in the last 16.

Also read: Wimbledon 2021: Sania Mirza advances to women’s double second round

“I know Richard really well, we’ve played so many times against each other. It’s always a pleasure playing against him. It was a wonderful match, I’m happy with my performance. A tough first set, I was happy with the second set and I was better in the third, so I’m very, very happy,” Federer said. 

Also read: Yankees acquire Tim Locastro in trade from Arizona Diamondbacks: Reports

The 39-year-old added that the Centre Court crowd may have split loyalties when he faces 25-year-old Englishman Norrie for a place in the last 16.

“I hope the crowd will get into it regardless of whether they are for him or me for the last 20 years. Cam is a good guy and is having a wonderful year. He has done well here but it’s time for him to go out!” he added.

Also read: Bobby Bonilla Day: Why the Mets shell out $1.19 million every year on July 1

This was the 19th time Federer has defeated Gasquet in 21 meetings. The 20-time Grand Slam winner will take on Cameron Norrie of Britain for a place in the last 16.

In other games on Thursday Nick Kyrgios defeated Gianluca Mager 7-6 (9/7), 6-4, 6-4. United States’ Taylor Fritz beat Steve Johnson 6-4, 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 6-7 (4/7), 6-4.