MIAMI, Florida — Andre Agassi, Andy Roddick and the Williams sisters ensured a strong American presence in the quarterfinals at the Nasdaq-100 Open with wins in Miami.
Defending champion Agassi beat Belarus’ Max Mirnyi 6-2 6-2, setting up a last eight meeting with Argentine Agustin Calleri.
Second seed Roddick had a tougher time in overcoming veteran Swede Jonas Bjorkman 6-4 3-6 6-3.
Six-times winner Agassi continued his comfortable defense against a lackluster Mirnyi.
“It feels good,” said Agassi.
“Days like these are few and far between so I definitely feel great about the performance but I’m experienced enough to know how quickly things can turn around.”
Agassi’s next opponent, Calleri, advanced with a 6-4 7-6 win over Australian Todd Martin.
Roddick faced a more determined challenge from Bjorkman in what was also a rehearsal for next week’s Davis Cup semifinal between the U.S. and Sweden at Delray Beach, Florida.
“Obviously you can’t help but think forward but winning tonight really doesn’t do anything to help our chances in the Davis Cup.”
Roddick also faces Argentine opposition in the quarters after Guillermo Canas beat Belgian Xavier Malisse 6-4 2-6 6-3.
Impressive return
Women’s top seed Serena Williams’ impressive return from an eight-month absence continued with a 6-4 6-3 win over Russian 16-year-old Maria Sharapova.
“Today and yesterday I was a bit sloppy but confidence-wise I feel like I’m getting better with every match,” said Serena, who underwent knee surgery after winning Wimbledon last year.
“You don’t understand how happy I am. Just to be out there competing is a really big step for me.”
Second seed Venus Williams joined her sister in the last eight with a 6-1 6-3 win over Italian 15th seed Francesca Schiavone.
“I was playing a very good player and a real fighter,” said Venus.
“So it was really good for me to get out there and make a point of getting through this match.”
Yorumlar kapatıldı.