“That’s got to be my biggest comeback,” Blake said. “Couldn’t have been a better feeling.”

Seventh-seeded Fernando Gonzalez, who lost the final here last year to Federer, was ousted 6-2, 6-7 (4), 6-3, 6-1 by Croatia’s Marin Cilic, who had never gone past the first round in three previous majors. Cilic, who called it his best performance, faces Blake next.

While a few Serbian flags were scattered about Rod Laver Arena — the roof was closed because of rain that postponed matches on outside courts — Federer fans dominated. One held a sign reading “Federer Express.”

Federer, who last lost a set here while beating Marcos Baghdatis in the final two years ago, started in top form again, ripping seven aces in his first four service games.

But the Serbian, looking like a grad student in his dark-rimmed glasses and short beard, forced a tiebreaker, where the only point that went against serve came with Federer facing set point at 5-6. Tipsarevic ripped a forehand crosscourt pass that dropped just inside the corner.

Tipsarevic fended off five break points in the second set before faltering in the tiebreaker.

Tipsarevic rallied from 15-40 while serving at 4-5 in the third set, then broke in the next game as Federer lost two aces to successful challenges by Tipsarevic, who then held for the set.

As he has done so often, Federer seemed to find an another level, running off five straight games to take the fourth set and even the match.

Tipsarevic refused to yield, saving two break points while serving at 2-2 in the deciding set, then a match point at 8-8 before Federer nailed a sharply angled backhand volley winner to take the last break. Federer held for the match when Tipsarevic netted a backhand to end it.

Federer shouted in relief as he pumped his fist.

“What a great victory,” he said.

Don't miss this on MSNBC.com Pass it on: Sons of infertile men may be next The eight biggest Olympic marketing debacles Reality show judges range from wise to wacko Cosmic Log: Is this your jetpack? Forget your inhibitions: World's sexiest islands

MORE FROM TENNIS

Tennis Section Front

Murray opens with win ATP says it can't reopen Agassi drug case Interactive: Creating the perfect tennis player ATP, WTA scores, schedules MORE ON TENNIS Latest tennis videos   Tennis Section Front   Add Tennis headlines to your news reader: