With Kurten being one of the most gifted players on the surface, the Swiss world number one will have to have to be on top of his game if he wants to proceed any further at Roland Garros.

Even though the Brazilian has not yet fully recovered from a hip operation, Kuerten was in scintillating form in his second round match, allowing the hapless Gilles Elseneer only five games in the contest.

Wimbledon and Australian Open champion Federer said he was extremely motivated for the showdown with Kuerten.

"It's a great match for the tournament and for us too. We have not played together very often, because of injuries and playing different surfaces," Federer said.

"It's nice to play such a great player, who has won three times here. If I can get past him, I guess for me, it's a great step."

Kuerten was equally gracious about his opponent.

"He has the capacity to win this year or later. He has enough talent to achieve this," the Brazilian said.

"To win the next match would already be a great feat to me. As for the final, it's a long way to go."

Former Grand Slam winners Venus Williams, seeded fourth, and Mary Pierce will add glamour to the proceedings on the Philippe Chatrier centre court when they meet in the third round of the women's draw.

"Even though she may not be in the same ranking or a seeded player, she does have the experience of a champion, so that's something I have to be ready for," Venus said about the 2000 champion, who is actually seeded 30th.

The last match on court Suzanne Lenglen, between former world number one Lleyton Hewitt and last year's losing finalist Martin Verkerk, could provide some drama.