Roger Federer began his quest for his fifth consecutive US Open title by beating Argentina's Maximo Gonzalez in just 82 minutes, winning 6-3 6-0 6-3.

The defending champion fired 15 aces and hammered 39 winners against his opponent, ranked 118th in the world, to book a date with Brazil's Thiago Alves.

Tommy Haas defeated 12th seed Richard Gasquet 6-7 (3-7) 6-4 5-7 7-5 6-2 win in a first-round match on Tuesday.

Haas, who is in Federer's quarter of the draw, now faces Gilles Muller.

Federer was happy with his display as he looks to win his first Grand Slam of the year after failing to defend his Australian Open and Wimbledon crowns.

"This take a little bit of pressure off me because I know a little more about where my game is at," said the Swiss star, who recently lost his number one ranking to Rafal Nadal. "I have to play more aggressively on hardcourt."

Federer, who has had a disappointing year so far despite winning Olympic doubles gold with compatriot Stanislas Wawrinka, admits he knows little about his next opponent.

"I only know what he looks like," said the 27-year-old.

"I watched him play a few points on TV Wednesday, I expect him to be a similar opponent who plays from the baseline."