Next week, Andy begins the European clay court swing. First stop: Foro Italico, Rome. Seeded fifth, Andy has been placed in the bottom half of the draw and will face Romanian Victor Hanescu in the first round.

Although like Andy, we don’t like to look too far ahead in the draw, it is worth noting that this year’s Masters Series Event in Rome boasts a strong field. Lurking in Andy’s quarter of the draw is Barcelona finalist, Tommy Robredo and the number three seed, Ivan Ljubicic.

Click here for the full men’s singles draw:
[1] http://www.atptennis.com/posting/2006/416/mdS.pdf

Andy has enjoyed success at Rome in the past, reaching the semi finals in 2002, and last year demonstrated his ‘No Compromise’ attitude in a stunning display of sportsmanship during his third round match against Verdasco.

Andy has been practising hard in Austin and Charleston to prepare for the European clay. He will be ready to play some dirt ball against the best when he arrives in Rome for his second clay court event of the year.

Stay tuned to AR.com for full coverage throughout Rome!