Esther, thank you for waking me up in the wee hours of the morning with your text message informing me about Rendy Lu's first round victory!Fans were dying to see Rendy wins again after last month's victory against David Nalbandian at the Australian Open.
So when Rendy defeated former world no. 1 Lleyton Hewitt in three sets, 7-5, 2-6, 6-2, we're the happiest bunch on earth!
“I never thought I would win today,” said Rendy.Well, Rendy you better start believing that you can win no matter who your opponents are!
“I did just a little better in the wind than Hewitt. I felt no pressure today at all, because I knew I was playing one of the best players in the world.”
Birthday boy Hewitt, who planned to have a birthday cake on court if he won the match, was probably tired after the semifinal match at Memphis last week.
Here's a bit of the match report provided by the friendly media people at yellowtennisball.com.
The first set was close as both Rendy and Hewitt focused on keeping the ball in play due to the windy conditions. Serving at 5-6, Hewitt double faulted at set point for Rendy. In the second set the Australian took an early lead by breaking Rendy at 1-1 and breaking again at 4-2. Hewitt seized the opportunity to serve for the set, which he took with a crosscourt forehand winner. An early break in the third gave Rendy a 3-0 lead, but after a long fifth game at 1-3, Hewitt broke back. A quick re-break by Rendy brought the score to 4-2. Rendy was able to hold his serve and after an unforced error, broke Hewitt who was playing on a wild card.Rendy will play Stefan Koubek next. So stay tune.
In the meanwhile, here are more photos of Rendy at Delray Beach.
Rendy's victory made the headlines at ATP and Delray Beach tourney websites. Here are the screen caps. You can click to enlarge.
(Via yellowtennisball.com; Images by CameraSport, Cecil Wise)
