MASON, Ohio — Roger Federer took a first step toward a seventh Cincinnati title on Tuesday night, beating Roberto Bautista Agut 6-4, 6-4 in his opening match.
The Swiss star won the Western & Southern Open last year for his unprecedented sixth title at the longtime ATP Tour stop. He got a good start by easily handling the Spaniard, whom he has beaten in straight sets in all four of their matches.
On the women's side, Maria Sharapova and Venus Williams dropped out of the tournament. Sharapova is still bothered by an injured right leg, and Williams came down with a virus.