Federer downs Roddick

World number one Roger Federer issued an ominous warning to his rivals for the Australian Open title as he beat Andy Roddick 6-4 7-5 to win the Kooyong Classic yesterday.

Roddick, the world number two, hammered down nine aces but one break of serve in each set was enough to give Federer his ninth win over the American in 10 meetings.

The 23-year-old Swiss, who beat Russian Marat Safin in the final of the Australian Open in 2004, said he was better prepared for the year's first grand slam event than ever before.

"I feel much much better coming into this Australian Open than last year," Federer said.

"It's different to last year because I got here with no coach and people were wondering how that would be. I put a lot more pressure on myself."

With Australian Tony Roche, who coached Ivan Lendl and Pat Rafter, now in his corner on a part-time basis, Federer is the favourite to win at Melbourne Park.

Once Federer had saved a break point in the fourth game against Roddick he was always in control, breaking in the fifth game on his way to the first set in 26 minutes.

Roddick called for the trainer early in the second set after suffering pain in his right ankle.

But, after deciding to play on, he upped his performance to match Federer until a netted forehand handed the Swiss the break in the 11th game and he served out to love to clinch victory.

"Even if I'd lost today, I think this week would have been a great preparation," Federer said. "I surprised myself by winning this tournament because exhibitions sometimes I'm not the best at, but I played two good matches and I feel I am ready to go."

¤ Andre Agassi plans on playing in this week's Australian Open after coming through a hastily-arranged exhibition match to test a hip injury. The 34-year-old suffered the injury in the Kooyong Classic last Thursday. Although his movement was not at its best in yesterday's match with Tim Henman, Agassi said the prospects were encouraging."Today's a good sign, no question" said Agassi, who lost 6-3 6-7 7-5 to Henman. "I plan on playing but I'll have to take it day by day."