Almagro begins title defence

Originally published on: 26/02/10 12:17

The top-seeded Spaniard kept his Brazilian opponent off-balance by blasting 11 aces and winning 94% (31-of-33) of first serve points.

Hocevar collected 12 aces but did not have any success against Almagro’s serve, failing to even force a break point during the one hour 44 minute match.

Fifth seed Marcel Granollers of Spain also advanced to the second round after recording a 6-2 2-6 6-1 triumph over another Brazilian wildcard Flavio Saretta, while sixth seed Eduardo Schwank of Argentina converted four-of-13 break-point opportunities en route to a 6-1 7-5 win over compatriot Diego Junqueira.

Finally, Martin Vassallo Arguello beat Nicolas Massu 7-6 (7/4) 2-6 6-4 in an epic three-hour contest.

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By Tim Farthing

About the Author / Tim Farthing

Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.