As expected, both Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer advanced in their Round 2 matches on Day 3 of the 2012 Australian Open in Melbourne, although Federer’s victory was in a slightly different form than anticipated.
Australian Open 2012, Day 3: Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer Advance
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The No. 2-ranked Nadal defeated German-born Tommy Haas in straight sets, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4. Nadal has been dealing with a nagging knee injury, but won the match handily. Haas did take an early lead in the final set, but Nadal battled back and closed out the win during his opponent’s serve.
Federer, currently ranked as the No. 3 men's tennis player in the world, advanced to the third round when his Day 3 opponent, Andreas Beck of Germany, withdrew due to injury. There was a note of bittersweet irony here, as Federer was forced to pull out of his semifinal match due to a back injury in the last tournament he participated in, at the Qatar Open in early January. It is not yet determined who Federer or Nadal will face in Round 3.
No. 11 Juan Martin del Potro also advanced, defeating Blaz Kavcik in straight sets, 6-4, 7-5, 6-3.
For complete updates and coverage of the 2012 Autralian Open, please stay tuned to SB Nation’s tennis hub.
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