Roger Federer got his campaign for a sixth Wimbledon title off to a solid start with a straight-sets first-round win over Yen-Hsun Lu of China.

Federer opened proceedings on Centre Court in the absence of injured defending champion Rafael Nadal.

Despite dropping serve early on, Roger Federer showed good form to come through 7-5 6-3 6-2 in one hour 45 minutes.

"It's very special and it will always remain that way," Federer said of being first on Centre Court for the sixth successive year.

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"It's a very privileged spot, Monday 1pm, so of course I feel honoured. I know that Rafa deserves it obviously more than I do this year but somebody had to do it, so I'm very happy that they chose me, of course. Gets your heart beating, that's for sure." Federer added.

"Nadal wouldn't have a problem handling it but it's still something he might obviously regret as well a little bit. That made his decision so difficult, I'm sure, as well." continued Federer.

"I'm very happy with my first round. I thought it was a very solid performance, because that's what it took today against Lu."

Federer appeared pleased with his solid form having chosen not to participate in the event in Halle after his exhausting run to a maiden French Open title.