Federer, Hewitt thunder through

Roger Federer began his bid for a third consecutive Wimbledon title by thundering into the second round, beating Paul-Henri Mathieu 6-4 6-2 6-4.

Banishing early stormclouds, Roger Federer and Lleyton Hewitt thundered through to the second round of Wimbledon on Monday.

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The afternoon sun which bathed Wimbeldon after a damp start to the opening day also heralded victories for Lindsay Davenport, Amelie Mauresmo and Kim Clijsters on the All England Club's lush green lawns.

Champion Federer raced into the second round with a 6-4 6-2 6-4 win over Paul-Henri Mathieu.

"Definitely a good start to the tournament," said Federer who is seeking a third straight Wimbledon title.

"There's always something special when you come back and try to defend the Wimbledon championship. I'm definitely very happy to have done that...very important first step."

Federer, who clattered 18 aces past his French opponent, was joined in the second round by the man he considers a main rival for his crown, 2002 champion Hewitt.

The Australian baseliner wasted no time sweeping aside Belgium's Christophe Rochus 6-3 6-3 6-1 in 92 minutes.

"It was a good hit out without wasting too much energy," was Hewitt's verdict.

The world number two is seeded to meet Federer in the semi-finals.