Valentines Day Victory

If cupid shot as many arrows as Andy served aces this evening, love was certainly in the air at the HP Pavilion Center in San Jose. In the debut match in his title defense, Andy decisively defeated Guillermo Garcia-Lopez 6-3, 6-4. Looking rejuvenated from the hectic Davis Cup weekend, Andy saw a lot of love Tuesday night. 40 - love that is.

After attending the SAP Open’s kick-off party Monday night along side tournament director Bill Rapp, Andy was all business against the wiley Spaniard this evening. It did take a few games to get his bearings on center court. Andy dropped the first service game, but immediately fought to break Garica-Lopez and held strong to take the lead 2-1.

Garcia-Lopez, who has involuntarily acquired the nickname G-Lo, put up a good fight, matching Andy at 3 all. G-Lo saved a few break points in the eighth game, but Andy finally converted one, stretching his lead to 5-3. Andy finished off the set on his serve, 6-3.

While some choose to be clever or coy on Valentines Day, both Andy and Guillermo left little to the imagination in the second set. Garcia-Lopez opened with a hold to which Andy easily responded. Facing some pressure in the fourth game, Andy saved three consecutive break points to level the set at 2 all. The two battled on, each holding to 3 a piece. Andy avoided a scare in the eighth game, saving his serve and a few more break points. Guillermo was unable to save break points in the following game as Andy charged to a 5-4 lead. He quickly served out the set to clinch the match 6-3, 6-4. It may not be a box of chocolates or a dozen roses, but for a tennis fan, a “W” is the perfect Valentine’s Day gift.

Check back to Ar.com from more of Andy in San Jose.