Ruthless Federer eases into third round of U.S. Open

By Larry Fine

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Roger Federer took another step towards his quest for a fourth successive U.S. Open title on Wednesday by routing qualifier Paul Capdeville of Chile 6-1 6-4 6-4 to ease into the third round at the National Tennis Center.

The world number one, looking to register a 12th grand slam title in his drive to eclipse the record 14 won by Pete Sampras, needed just 89 minutes to advance.

"I'm very happy the way I played. I think I hit the ball well," said the Swiss maestro, who crushed 45 winners and made only 11 unforced errors in the match.

"It was pretty much a controlled match," he told reporters. "It's nice to have it the first night session."

Federer wore all black -- down to black shoes and black socks -- but brightened the night at Arthur Ashe Stadium with his brilliant shot-making, ending the match by slashing a backhand crosscourt winner.

The 26-year-old Federer said he decided it would be fun to switch from his accustomed blue attire for the U.S. Open and wear black.

"I thought it really looks cool. In New York you can do such a thing. Nowhere else in the world.

"For me I thought it was a cool mix with kind of the tuxedo look, all black. Why not? Especially at night."