2006 Nasdaq-100: Andy Aces First Match

Andy served ten aces tonight, the tenth flying at 145 mph, and was back in great form despite the chilly weather. As today’s last match, Andy claimed his golden ticket to the next round in 55 minutes, defeating Spain’s Alberto Martin 6-4, 6-1. With no Instant Replay challenges called in two matches, we still have another week of play to see Andy test it.

There was a new enhancement throughout this match, though, and it was the live mini microphone that Doug Spreen, Andy’s trainer, wore. Andy came out with a bang, and broke for the lead, 3-1. Andy’s great serving earned some recognition for his box, picked up by the new microphone. After one of Andy’s three aces in a row that took him to claim the first set, Doug was let us know he was very impressed with one 138 mph “bomb”.

The only challenge of the match was handed out by Martin in the slightest hope that Andy wouldn’t start off the second set with a break, but he did, and held serve for a 2-0 lead. Martin only won his next service game for the rest of the set, then Andy ran away with the “W” at 6-1.

With 58 winners and winning 93% of his first service points on top of the hitting ten huge 138 to 145 mph aces, Andy’s smile made quite a showing as well. Dean Goldfine, Andy’s previous coach, came to support his former player, and was nothing but smiles as he sat in Andy’s box.

“This past year, I’ve never been fitter, I’ve worked harder than ever, and I’ve been more professional, too,” Andy noted in his post-match ESPN chat via headset. “I’m confident (in my game) and I think it’ll start showing.” Andy’s finding “a happy medium between ‘winging it’ and being ‘too prepared’ and anxious,” and it worked tonight.

The cool, calm, and confident Andy will face another Spaniard in the next round, Fernando Verdasco (31). Stay tuned for Andy’s press conference, coach’s comments, and a match preview! Go Andy!