January 14, 2019 -- Melbourne, Australia 

As defending Champion, Roger took the court on Monday to begin his campaign for a 7th Australian Open. Facing a fellow veteran, Denis Istomin, Roger looked solid in his opening match.

Facing no breaks, the Swiss star served well with 14 aces and also executed 52 winners to get his first victory under his belt 6-3, 6-4, 6-4. 

"I think I was hitting the ball pretty well. I think I protected my serve well, didn't allow Denis really to get into my service games to often. I was always in the lead, as well. I'm very happy with my first round. It's been great. Felt the ball really good."

Next up will be Daniel Evans, who Roger has played at Wimbledon in 2016.

Roger is currently tied with Novak Djokovic and Roy Emerson for most Australian Open Championships with 6 each, another title here will push him ahead on that list.