Players Under the Microscope / Editor / 01 June 2007 /

Roger Federer says he will not be taking Mikhail Youzhny lightly in their fourth-round clash despite his scintillating form to date.

The world number one eased into the fourth round with a 6-2 6-3 6-0 victory over Italian Potito Starace on Friday and the Swiss ace has yet to drop a set in the year's second Grand Slam.

Federer is an overwhelming 1.06 favourite to beat Russian star Youzhny in round four with the 13th seed on offer at 15, but the top seed was full of praise for his next opponent at Roland Garros, who has improved beyond recognition in recent times.

"I think he is a fantastic player," he said. "He's always been very famous for playing exceptionally well in practice but not really tying it together in a match situation.

"Now he's been able to do that, and he's been doing it on a regular basis. That puts him in contention."

But the 10-time Grand Slam winner made it clear that he is nearing his peak as the business end of the Paris tournament approaches.

"I'm happy that things are going well," he added. "I haven't lost a set and I'm feeling well. It's difficult for everybody here at the moment with the changing conditions and the gusty winds."

Youzhny beat 2003 champion Juan Carlos Ferrero 6-7 (3-7) 7-6 (7-3) 6-2 6-2 to move into round four and is available at big odds in the 'Winner without Nad / Fed' market, which is headed by Guillermo Canas at 3.6.

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