Playing only four days after his five-set loss to Juan Martin del Potro in the U.S. Open final, Federer shook off two break points in the opening game and was never in trouble again against the 64th-ranked Bolelli.
Stanislas Wawrinka opened the tie by beating Andreas Seppi 6-4, 6-1, 6-2 on the red clay courts at the Valletta Cambiaso club.
The winner of the best-of-five series will return to the World Group next year.
Keirrison open to Roma loanFederer chosen to play 3 matches against Italy
