Rested but untested, Roger looking good in Dubai

DUBAI - Roger Federer sent Benoit Paire packing at the Dubai Tennis Championships on Monday, showing few signs of rust after a month-long break following his heroics at the Australian Open.

Chasing a record eighth title at the Dubai showpiece, Federer outclassed Paire 6-1, 6-3 in what was his first match since winning an 18th Grand Slam in January in Melbourne against Rafael Nadal.

The timeless Swiss, who had been unsure of his form and fitness following the layoff and a leg injury, is yet to lift an eighth title at any event. He has won Dubai, Wimbledon, Basel, Cincinnati and Halle seven times each.