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January 19th, 2006 11:14 pm
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In scorching temperatures at Melbourne Park, Andy enjoyed cruising to victory 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 over France’s Julien Benneteau.
Before this year, Benneteau had never won a main draw singles match Down Under. With the combination of being very tight and facing Andy’s aggressive game, he found himself down 0-5 after only 13 minutes.
Six minutes later the first set was Andy’s (6-1) as he dictated play, forced errors, and served 75% first serves. Naturally, there was a thunderous response from Andy’s cheering section that was also in fine form.
Andy took control of the second set by breaking his French opponent in the third game with a superb lob. With a clenched fist to Team Roddick, Andy continued to do just what he needed to. With Benneteau struggling to find the court, Andy continued to blast serves and apply pressure clinching the set at 6-2
Andy broke twice at the start of the third set to take a 3-0 lead. Benneteau continued to search for a way to make any impression on Andy and when he hit a backhand wide, Andy’s “c’mon” could be heard all around Rod Laver Arena. The
crowd responded and Andy’s cheerleaders started chanting and dancing.
The end of the match was played out in good spirits, with Benneteau relaxing, embracing the experience, and playing to the gallery. Andy’s 17th ace clinched the match and advances Andy into round four where he will face Marcos Baghdatis (CYP.)
To thank his fans for their support Andy hit a ball up to them, and waved at them as they chanted his name. With his resounding victory, Andy also raised $1700 through the American Express Aces Scheme which benefits Kids Tennis Foundation.
Check back for all the latest on Andy Down Under.
Go Andy!