Heads rolled at the US Open on Day 1 (Men’s Report)

Rain delayed the start of play on day 1, but not avoided several heads rolled across the court. Actually, 5 seeded players (out of 11 who played yesterday) were ousted from the tournament: Ljubicic, Hrbaty, Nieminen, Acasuso, and Chela. Bad day for the Italian contingent, wiped out easily by all kind of opponents. A Rod keeps to be on top of his game, very focused, he did what he had to do, and the french guy, Florent Serra, crashed down. Andre won by heart and soul and moved on to set a second round clash with raising star Marcos Baghdatis. That’s day 1 report in pills. Amongst the many that deserve a special praise, I have chosen the day heroes: Malisse and Srichapan. The belgian was gorgeous: straight sets win over Jarko Nieminen, fired winners from all side of the court, finished the match with 36 winners and only 24 unforced errors, while the finnish standed at 22 and 36, winning 79% of points on 1st serve and just one bp for Nieminen!!! The Thai shows what kind of athlete he is, survives five-set marathon which lasted about 3 hours and a half against the tough Acasuso’s impressive forehand and serve bombs (fastest serve 137 MPH). What did make the difference in the end? Paradorn remains fresh until the end (he’s a great athlete, not just good), whereas Acasuso’s his footwork appeared leaden in the fifth set.
At last, just to say third seed Ljubicic is leaving from NY with pale face and tired eyes, unusually out of shape.