Isner, Querrey, Smyczek put Americans in the U.S. Open win column

“I feel like I played well today,” Isner commented. “I played a great second set. I wish the third set would have been easier. I had a lot of chances. So if there’s one disappointing thing from today it’s not converting on those chances, especially in the third set. I had some in the first set, as well. But all in all, I’m happy with it in straight sets.”

The 6’10” American was referring, of course, to his break-point opportunities, of which he converted just two of 14. As usual, however, he relied on his serve–which was in strong form even by Isner’s lofty standards. The No. 13 seed blasted 26 aces without double-faulting a single time.

“I guess not off to a great start.” Isner said when asked about his fellow Americans after Querrey beat Maximo Gonzalez in five sets but before Smyczek won. “Two lost yesterday and two have not advanced so far today. But two have. I think Sam is very good; he’s way better than his ranking, that’s for sure. I don’t know where he is in the draw or whatever, but he’s capable of doing very big things.”

“It’s my favorite court in the world,” Querrey said when asked about playing on Louis Armstrong. “I love playing out there. Got a good record out there. I think Isner will say the same thing. He likes it out there. It’s a fun court. People are down close and, you know, I’m always excited when I play out there. I hope they don’t have plans to knock it down or change it at all. I really like it.”

Next up for Isner is Jan-Lennard Struff, while Smyczek is set to face Roberto Bautista Agut. Smyczek almost reached the fourth round last season but lost a five-set thriller to Marcel Granollers. Querrey awaits Guillermo Garcia-Lopez before a possible third-round date with Novak Djokovic.