Roddick Defeats American Wild Card Williams in Straight Sets
August 28, 2012 | By Long Island Tennis Magazine Staff
Photo credit: Kenneth B. Goldberg
Twenty-nine-year-old American Andy Roddick defeated fellow American Rhyne Williams in straight sets 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 in Tuesday afternoon action of the first round of the 2012 U.S. Open. This was the first U.S. Open for Williams, a former University of Tennessee player, at the age of 21.
In the first set, Roddick led 4-3, where he attained three break points. He materialized the third break point to go up a break and lead 5-3. He then easily held to win the first set in his usual fashion of strong serves. The second set saw the momentum continue with an early first game break against William’s serve. Roddick would then be unstoppable capturing the second set 6-4 along with the third for the match 6-4.
"He hit about as many dropshots today as I ever hit in my career," said Roddick of his first-round opponent. "He has a good base. I mean, he can create something. Now it’s just a matter of he’s got to be a little bit quicker. I have dealt with an average backhand for many years and have had to kind of learn to get around it a little bit and become a better mover later on, you know, in my career."
Roddick now awaits the winner of the match between Carlos Berlocq of Argentina and Bernard Tomic of Australia for his second round opponent.
