(CNN) -- World number three Roger Federer exited the Monte Carlo Masters at the quarterfinals stage to Austrian Jurgen Melzer Friday. 

Melzer was securing his first victory over the 16-time grand slam champion as he ran out a 6-4 6-4 winner at the prestigious clay court event. 

It was the earliest defeat for Federer in a tournament this year, ending his hopes of claiming the Monte Carlo title for the first time after being beaten three times in the final by Rafael Nadal. 

He has drawn blank since claiming the ATP season-opener in Doha, Qatar. 

Federer had breezed to the last eight, but was always struggling against Melzer in blustery conditions. 

Melzer broke for 3-2 in the opening set after an errant Federer forehand and held on to close it out. 

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The second followed a similar pattern, with Federer unable to capitalize on his seven break points in the match as the seventh seed went through. 

Melzer was delighted to finally get past his old nemesis in such convincing fashion. 

"He beat me three times last year and I didn't even win a set," he told AFP. 

"But many things went well for me, my shots worked well. When he had break points I was calm and served well. 

"I did well on the big points and played my game." 

Federer shrugged off his defeat as he now takes a two-week break before the Madrid Masters in his build-up to the French Open next month. 
How long of a break is the loser taking?
Federer shrugged off his defeat as he now takes a two-week break before the Madrid Masters in his build-up to the French Open next month.