With the French Open and long clay court season over, players look to make the transition from the slow red clay to the faster grass courts in preparation for the start of the Championships at Wimbledon in a few weeks. The first big grass court tournament is the 2008 Artois Championships. Competition at the Queens Club opens with three players from the Southern Section looking to move on.
Fresh off being the last remaining American in the French Open singles draw, Robby Ginepri looked to bring his success to the grass courts. Ginepri’s opponent in the first round was fellow American Vince Spadea. In a very tight match, there was only one break of service by Ginepri that helped him on his way to the 6-4, 7-6(4) victory. This win sets up another American showdown in the second round with defending champion Andy Roddick.
Bobby Reynolds got off to a rough start against Czech Republic’s Ivo Minar. Only connecting on 45% of his first serves, Reynolds was broken four times. Reynolds did settle down and play better in the second set, but it was too late as he went on to lose 1-6, 5-7.
After a disappointing five set loss in the first round of the French Open, John Isner has had the opportunity to turn his focus to the new surface. In the first round Isner matched up with South African Kevin Anderson. Isner served well the entire match, connecting on 81% of his first serves. Isner did not allow any break chances for the South African and pulled out a 7-6(5), 6-4 win.