New York, Aug 30
In a commanding display of skill, India’s Rohan Bopanna and Australia’s Matthew Ebden secured a straight-sets victory over the Dutch pair of Sander Arends and Robin Haase at the US Open 2024 on Friday.The second-seeded Indo-Australian duo, who were runners-up in last year’s tournament, triumphed 6-3, 7-5 in just 64 minutes at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.This win was a significant boost for Bopanna and Ebden, marking their first victory in four matches together. The first set saw both teams exchanging early breaks, but Bopanna and Ebden quickly asserted their dominance. After initially conceding a break point in the third game, they rallied to win four straight games, including two break points, and closed the set comfortably despite a late challenge from their opponents.In the second set, Arends and Haase began with renewed vigor, establishing a 4-1 lead after breaking in the third game. However, the reigning Australian Open champions demonstrated their experience and strategic acumen, leveling the set at 5-5 with a blend of powerful serves and well-placed winners. They then seized a crucial break point to go 6-5 ahead and ultimately secured the match by holding their serve.Bopanna and Ebden will next face the Spanish-Argentine duo of Roberto Carballes Baena and Federico Coria in the second round. Additionally, Bopanna is set to compete in the mixed doubles opening round later on Friday, partnering with Indonesia’s Aldila Sutjiadi.
