Tennis: Djokovic makes Monte Carlo third round with mixed display

Reuters, Wednesday 18 Apr 2012

The Serb will next take on 16th seed Alexandr Dolgopolov in the third round of the Monte Carlo Masters

Djokovic
Novak Djokovic of Serbia serves during his match against Andreas Seppi of Italy during the Monte Carlo Masters in Monaco April 18, 2012. (Photo: REUTERS)

World number one Novak Djokovic advanced to the Monte Carlo Masters third round after defeating Italian Andreas Seppi 6-1 6-4 in the season's first big claycourt tournament on Wednesday.

The Serb, who is chasing Rafael Nadal's French Open crown after winning the last three grand slam events, had a flying start to go 4-0 up but was less impressive afterwards and needed 88 minutes to edge out Seppi - ranked 44th in the world.

Djokovic easily grabbed the first set but was made to work a little harder in the second as Seppi, who had lost their six previous ties, played more aggressively.

Djokovic will next take on 16th seed Alexandr Dolgopolov, who beat Australian teenager Bernard Tomic 6-2 5-7 6-1.

(For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online sports on Twitter: @AO Sports)

Short link: