Melbourne - Roger Federer stepped up his preparation for the Australian Open as he claimed his eighth career victory over Carlos Moya 6-2, 6-3 on Wednesday's opening day at the AAMI Classic.

Joining Federer as a winner at the promotion-relegation event was Olympic doubles partner Stan Wawrinka, with the number 16 hammering off-form Marcos Baghdatis 6-2, 6-2.

Fernando Verdasco of Spain beat Croatian Marin Cilic 6-2, 7-5 while Chile's Fernando Gonzalez showed the bebefits of two and a half months off in a defeat of Croatian Ivan Ljubicic 6-4, 6-3.

Federer is heading into Monday's start of the Australian Open healthy, a contrast to his form a year ago when he was recovering from glandular fever which forced him to miss the eight-man Grand Slam warm-up.

"Last year, I didn't know where my game was, the preparation was completely different. I was just trying to play. This time around it's a better feeling, more confidence," he said.

The world number two Swiss, who is aiming to tie the all-time record of 14 Grand Slam singles titles if he can win the Open, said he is ready for the challenge he has already met four times at Melbourne Park.

"You're going into the Australian Open knowing you can take the five sets. You're not scared about anything. Last year I was scared of the first round exit, not being able to last five sets, all those kinds of things.

"This year, it's going to be a different situation so, obviously, I feel way better now."

The Swiss was pleased to get out in less than an hour over 32-year-old Moya. "It was hot, but it was a chance to get used to conditions," said the winner.

"I was a bit rusty in the beginning and missed a few forehands. But it was a good match overall. The wind didn't make it easy to play but I was playing okay today."

Wawrinka was untroubled by the fragile Baghdatis, who has now lost two matches in two weeks in 2009.

"I don't accept being ranked 97th, I want to be back in the top 10, that's what I think every day," said the 2006 Australian Open finalist against Federer.

"That's why I'm doubting in myself. I'm just looking to find a way to come back in the top 10. It will take time. I don't know how much time it will take, but I am ready to do anything to get back."

Last season's run of injuries has subsided, but Baghdatis said a week ago that he felt thigh pain, which is now improving.

"I'm feeling okay now but I'm disappointed with how I played. I'm very sorry for my performance."

Spain's Fernando Verdasco got into the win column on his debut at the tournament, defeating last week's Chennai champion Marin Cilic of Croatia 6-2, 7-5. (dpa)