Federer rallies, nabs victory over Rochus

OEIRAS, Portugal (AP) — Roger Federer rallied from a set down to defeat Olivier Rochus of Belgium 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 Tuesday in the first round of the clay-court Estoril Open.

The top-ranked Swiss player had 17 aces, but also many unforced errors, against the 80th-ranked Belgian. It was Federer's first match since he started working with coach Jose Higueras, a clay-court specialist.

Federer is struggling through his worst start to a season since 2000 — the last time he went four tournaments without a victory. Only two Grand Slam titles short of tying Pete Sampras' record of 14, Federer still needs to win the French Open to complete a career Grand Slam.