Federer and Bencic secure Hopman Cup glory for Switzerland
Switzerland won the Hopman Cup on Saturday as Roger Federer and Belinda Bencic got the better of Alexander Zverev and Angelique Kerber.
Roger Federer helped Switzerland to their third Hopman Cup title on Saturday, 17 years on from winning the trophy for the first time alongside Martina Hingis.
Federer and Bencic prevail in Perth
Federer and Belinda Bencic beat Alexander Zverev and Angelique Kerber 4-3 (5-3) 4-2 in the deciding doubles contest in Perth.
While many of his rivals have been plagued by injuries ahead of the Australian Open, the evergreen Federer has been able to enjoy a relaxed build-up to the year's first grand slam.
He won all four of his singles contests this week, beating Alexander Zverev in three sets to maintain that record, and again teamed up with Bencic to good effect after the latter had been beaten 6-4 6-1 by Kerber.
The German pairing of Zverev and Kerber looked set to move ahead in the Fast4 doubles when they opened up a 2-0 lead in the first set tie-break.
Swiss pair make comeback
However, Federer and Bencic recovered admirably to take the set and proved too strong thereafter.
"Thanks to Roger for playing with me," said Bencic, who is continuing to climb the WTA rankings following a lengthy injury layoff.
"It really is a dream come true. I couldn't wish for a better partner. I'll never forget this week. It's been unbelievable."