Roger Federer dropped just four games as he earned his place in the third round of the US Open with a straight-sets win over Steve Darcis on Thursday evening.

The world number two took the initiative in the third game of the set as he broke the Belgian with an array of impressive groundstrokes, and was able to secure a second on Darcis's next service game.

Federer closed out the first set with his third break as Darcis had no answer for his play across the court, allowing the Swiss to take a 1-0 lead in the match.

The Swiss continued his imperious display at the start of the second set as he broke the Belgian using his forehand to great effect to hit back-to-back winners. Darcis battled to try to remain in the set, but Federer was able to ease to a 6-2 victory courtesy of his second break.

Federer secured another early break of serve in the third set and put himself on the brink of victory by breaking Darcis again. The 34-year-old completed his rout of the Belgian with his third break of the set to take it 6-0 and seal his place in the third round.

Federer will face Philipp Kohlschreiber in the third round of the competition.