It wasn't easy, but they're through. Some in spectacular fashion (Johnny!) and some in grinding fashion (Elf and Andy) and some in "last woman standing" fashion (Justine and Jay Z).
67(4) 64 46 76(3)
Florence played a fantastic match against A-Rod, but this not being Davis Cup, he faltered at the key moments. A-Rod played passively and refused to get anywhere near an attacking mode, and Feli took advantage. But in the end, it wasn't enough. He definitely gave A-Rod a scare though.
61 46 76(4) 76(5)
This was the match of the day for me, as Gael and Halpert played a fantastic three sets after Gael finally woke up after the first. This match pretty much came down to Halpert playing two *amazing* tiebreaks. He showed tremendous poise and guts, and its clear that he's improved in all aspects of his game: groundies, net, and movement. Gael played well, Halpert was just better. Really happy for him.
36 64 62
If Kleybs was going to pull this off it had to be in straight sets. Once she couldn't take that second set, eventually losing 4-6, she was gassed and Justine cruised. But I think she encouraged the field, showing that Justine is still vulnerable to big hitters. She also clearly suffered physically from her grueling match against Lena. She was a step slow and off on her groundies during the first set and a half. So kudos to Kleybs (who seems a good 10 pounds lighter) for making her play a tough 3 sets. Perhaps the field will tire Justine out as the tourney goes on. She doesn't have a break in the next round: Bring on Wickmayer.
57 63 60
I'm going to assume that somewhere in the middle of the second set, Mono found out that JJ lost that morning. And then all motivation left her. Or, you know, she's Mono and she ran out of gas. But yay, China!
63 06 64 75
As for Elf, I don't know what's up but he was fiddling with his forearm taping throughout the first set. Is it injury? Is it rust? I don't know. Hope he figures it out soon. Those big legs won't have enough left if he keeps this up.
