World number seven Roger Federer has admitted that he "would love" an encounter against Rafael Nadal at the US Open, but is focused on the task at hand.
The Swiss moved into the third round on Thursday after dispatching Carlos Berlocq 6-3 6-2 6-1 at Flushing Meadows.
Federer's unusually low seeding of seventh would mean that he would face Nadal in the quarter-finals of the tournament should they both reach that stage, but the 32-year-old insists that he isn't thinking about a clash with the Spaniard.
"I am well aware of the draw," Federer told reporters. "But, at the moment, I am clearly focusing on round by round and it would be a big mistake if I was thinking too much about Rafa.
"I would love a match with Rafa but, for that to happen, I have to keep playing well and keep winning.
"Right now it's about winning for me, trying to gain confidence and enjoy myself. I hope I can progress, we'll see how it goes. Today was one of those matches I expect myself to win, if possible in straight sets, and gain confidence in the process. All those things happened, so I'm pleased about it."
Federer, who is a six-time champion at the US Open, will face Adrian Mannarino of France in round three.
Matt Cotton
