Seven-time champion Roger Federer survived a major scare, as he recovered from 5-3 down to beat Philipp Kohlschreiber 7-6 (10-8) 3-6 7-6 (7-5) at the Gerry Weber Open, which is viewed as a warm-up event for the Wimbledon Grand Slam.
The 17-time grand slam champion required two tie-breaks to overcome the German 7-6, 3-6, 7-6 and make a successful start to his grass-court campaign, the BBC reported.
Federer will be aiming for a record eighth title at the All England Club and overhaul William Renshaw and Pete Sampras.
World number six Tomas Berdych would be facing Victor Estrella Burgos, second seed K. Nishikori would be taking on Dominic Thiem in their first round matches today.