Andy Murray hadn’t played since the US Open.  Roger Federer hadn’t played since a Davis Cup qualifying tie against Italy where he played two singles matches.  Murray cited a left wrist injury which impacted his plat at the US Open.  Federer cited injury and fatigue, and presumably, fatherhood.

While the remaining players on tour continued to Asia for tournament play, these two rested and trained.

This week marked the return of both players to the tour.  Roger played in Basel in his hometown tournament.  Murray chose to play in Valencia, in the country where he once trained.

Both entered as top seeds in their respective tournaments.  Federer and Djokovic are the top two seeds in Basel.  Federer won a match over Olivier Rochus.  Federer had a 6-0 record over Rochus and this match wasn’t about to change the record.  The two go way back, having won the junior Wimbledon doubles together over Michael Llodra and Andy Ram.  Federer won the match comfortably, 6-3, 6-4.

Novak Djokovic also won his first round match over German Andreas Beck, 6-3, 7-5.

In Valencia, Spain, Murray showed little rust in a win over wildcard, Daniel Gimeno-Traver, 6-3, 6-1.  Nikolay Davydenko is the 2nd seed and won his first match easily against Alejandro Falla, 6-2, 6-1.

Rafael Nadal is not playing this week.