MASON, Ohio — Roger Federer shook off his early round loss in Toronto last week and beat Robby Ginepri 6-7 (2), 7-6 (5), 6-0 today in his first match at the Cincinnati Masters.

Ginepri is 0-5 against the top-ranked Federer, but pressed him hard through two sets until Federer wore him down and Ginepri began missing on his first serve. He appeared to lose interest in the third set.

The $2.6 million ATP Western & Southern Financial Group Masters is Federer's second tournament since his Wimbledon title streak ended with a defeat to Rafael Nadal. A week ago, Federer was ousted from the Masters Canada tournament in the second round.

If Federer loses before the semifinals this week, Nadal could take away his No. 1 ranking.