Posted at 9:10 a.m., Monday, May 21, 2007
Roddick advances in Austria's Hypo Group International
Associated Press
POERTSCHACH, Austria — Andy Roddick defeated Alexander Peya 6-4, 7-5 today to advance to the second round of the Hypo Group International.The second-seeded American dropped just six points on his serve and twice broke the serve of Peya, an Austrian who was a wild-card entry to the tournament.
"It was a close match. I played well but made too many unforced errors," Roddick said. "A first match in a tournament can be pretty tough."
At 5-4 in the first set, Roddick converted his first break point after Peya hit two double faults, followed by a forehand error. At 6-5 in the second set, Roddick converted his third match point on Peya's serve after the Austrian missed a volley.
Peya said Roddick's serve made the difference.
"I felt very good on court and was playing really well in my own service games," Peya said. "But I couldn't find an answer to his strong serves. If you don't get any chance, it is quite demoralizing."
Roddick will face Kristian Pless of Denmark in the second round. Pless defeated Carlos Berlocq of Argentina 6-3, 6-3.
Third-seeded Ivan Ljubicic of Croatia also advanced, defeating Amer Delic of the U.S. 7-6 (7), 7-6 (8). Also through to the next round is Albert Montanes of Spain, who beat Daniele Bracciali of Italy 6-0, 6-4. Lee Hyung-taik of South Korea defeated Danai Udomchoke of Thailand, winning 6-3, 6-0.
