
Roger Federer defeated Guillermo Garcia-Lopez 6-3 6-4 at the Monte Carlo Masters Tuesday -- his first match since being sidelined with a knee injury after the Australian Open in January

Federer was forced to undergo surgery on his left knee, having suffered a torn meniscus, while illness kept him from returning at last month's Miami Open.

"The knee felt really good, like in practice. Felt like I didn't have to worry about it. I could just go freely," Federer said after the match.

The Swiss impressed during his 75-minute clash and would have wrapped up proceedings a little earlier had Garcia-Lopez not fought back from 5-1 down in the second set.

Federer, who is aiming for his first Monte Carlo Masters title, next faces Roberto Bautista Agut of Spain in the third round.