2010 Australian Open Day 3
In only the 2nd round, Day 3 provided two of the best matches you will see. Unfortunately, both took place overnight for the United States and would not be seen live by most fans.
On the men’s side, no. 4 Juan Martin Del Potro battled American James Blake for over 4 hours as Blake continued his attempt to return to the top. Del Potro eventually came out on top, 10-8 in the 5th set. Blake fell just short, after playing his best tennis in years.
Not to be outdone, the women were simultaneously keeping pace in the much anticipated showdown between no. 5 Elena Dementieva and Justine Henin. Henin is returning to the game after a 20 month retirement from the no. 1 spot. Dementieva, fresh off a victory in Sydney, is at the peak of her game and expects to challenge for a major title this year.
In a match that more than lived up to expectations, the two battled almost 3 hours before Henin finally prevailed. This match would have made a great final, it is a shame that Dementieva will only get points for a 2nd round defeat.
Overshadowed on the day were victories by Rafael Nadal (2), Andy Murray (5), and Andy Roddick (7). Upset losses by Tomas Berdych (21) and Viktor Troicki (29) went almost unnoticed.
Other women who advanced on the day were Dinara Safina (2), Svetlana Kuznetsova (3), Caroline Wosniacki (4), Victoria Azarenka (7), Jelena Jankovic (8), and Vera Zvonareva (9). Unseeded Maria Kirilenko continued her run after her 1st round upset of Maria Sharapova.
No. 12 Flavia Pennetta (12) lost to Yanina Wickmayer and American Vania King was ousted.
