By Ricky Dimon

Tiafoe, just 19 years old, turned in a predictably up-and-down performance amidst the pressure of his first appearance in Arthur Ashe Stadium. But it was nothing short of bizarre showing from Federer–even if he was not quite 100 percent due to a lingering back injury. The 19-time major champion was diabolical in the opening set, solid in sets two and three, an out-of-nowhere disaster in set four, and at least good enough in the fifth.

Federer failed to serve out the match at 5-3 in the decider, but he broke the American at 5-4 to clinch victory.

“It was more than a test,” the No. 2 seed assured. “It was good one. I think we both enjoyed ourselves out here tonight. I’m very happy with the match. It was exciting. It’s king of why I came to New York, as well–to go through these emotions.

Rafael Nadal also got off to a slow start in his opener, but in the end he had no trouble making things go his way against Dusan Lajovic. The world No. 1 broke to stay alive in the first set and was off to the races from there, winning 7-6(6), 6-2, 6-2.

Thanks to the Arthur Ashe roof, Federer and Nadal were the only men who advanced to the second round on Tuesday. All of the other matches were washed out by rain. While the roof allowed for play, it also made things much louder in the main stadium. Perhaps indicative of their rivalry, Federer and Nadal had different takes on the loudness factor.

“It’s great,” Federer quipped.