It wasn’t exactly as long as his epic 2010 Wimbledon encounter with Nicolas Mahut, but Isner needed lots of time to beat Marcos Baghdatis in the first round, 7-6 (7-2), 7-6 (7-5), 6-3. Isner should have an easier time in the second round, however, as he’s about to face a 248th-ranked player in Barton. Isner’s service game is going to be a big threat for Barton, who’ll have to figure out a way to solve the American’s serves. Isner, in fact, is no. 1 in the world in serve rating (318.5) and second in firs serve percentage (69.8%).
Barton probably needed someone to whack him in the face after scoring an unbelievable 6-7 (7-9), 7-6 (7-5), 6-3, 6-7 (5-7) victory in the first round over Albano Olivetti. The match was played for more than four hours, thus exemplifying Barton’s grit and determination. Of course, those qualities will only go so far for Barton in his attempt to take down Isner. For a better chance for another upset, Barton will have to take advantage every time Isner records a miscue. Isner had 32 unforced errors in his win over Baghdatis in the first round.
