Djokovic cruises into Indian Wells third round

 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 11:30

World No.3 Novak Djokovic cruised into the third round at Indian Wells with a comfortable 7-5 6-4 victory over Martin Vassallo Arguello.

After trading breaks early in a wind-affected first set, Djokovic broke Arguello once more again in game 11 and served out for the set.

“First matches are always the difficult ones” – Djokovic

The Argentine, ranked No.54 in the world, initially kept pace with the defending champion, but Djokovic was firmly in control and broke decisively in game 7 to clinch the win and set up a third round tie with Tommy Haas.

“First matches are always the difficult ones,” said Djokovic afterwards. “There is a lot of expectation and I know I will have to produce fantastic tennis to defend my title.”

Elsewhere, last year’s beaten finalist Mardy Fish, the No.20 seed, was edged out by France’s Jeremy Chardy 7-6(4) 7-6(1). Nicolas Kiefer and Stanislas Wawrinka are also into round 3.

Juan Martin Del Potro is there too, but was made to work hard in his second-round match with local lad Ryan Sweeting.

The No.6 seed was taken to three sets before putting his American opponent away 7-6 6-3 6-1. David Ferrer also dispatched American opposition, beating Todd Widom 6-4 7-5.

Now get the WORLD’S BEST TENNIS MAGAZINE here