Andy Roars into Round 3 in Cincy!

Andy opened his title defense with an impressive victory over Fernando Verdasco 7-6(3), 6-2.

Under the setting sun, Andy and Fernando took Center Court promptly at 7:00. The two traded aces and holds early on in the first set, battling to three all. Andy had one break opportunity early but Verdasco fiercely fought off the 2006 Champion. At 3 all, Andy faced his first break point but played a smart baseline game to hold for 4-3. The two continued to trade holds will relative ease until 5 all where Andy found himself down 0-30. With two brilliant aces Andy fought for 30-30. A well played half volley saved one break point for deuce. His third ace of the game followed by a monster first serve secured the hold for 6-5. A resilient Verdasco pushed on to a tiebreak where they swapped mini breaks but Andy eventually stormed to a 6-3 lead and took the first set 7-6 (3), firing 9 aces in roughly a little less than an hour.

An early break in the second gave Andy a 2-1 lead which he widened on his serve to 3-1. Verdasco continued to spray huge lefty forehands and held for 2-3. The skies began to darken as the match truly became a night match under the stadium lights. Andy had little trouble on his serve, and surged to a 4-2 lead where he immediately placed pressure on the Spaniard earning three break points. He capitalized on the first for 5-2 and the chance to serve out the match. Four decisive points later, Andy had booked himself into the third round 7-6 (3), 6-2. With his signature grin, Andy addressed the crowd, answering a few questions that earned massive applauses from the fans who were thrilled to see Andy advance.

Andy Next faces the winner of David Ferrer vs. Radek Stepanek.

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