In 2008, Mario Ancic got mononucleosis and this forced him off the tour for the better part of a year.  He’s not played much in 2 years.  Winning two rounds prior to this (Bobby Reynolds in the first round, Julien Benneteau in the second), was considered something of a success for Ancic, but he had few answers for Nadal.

Although Ancic was known as a serve and volleyer, like many players, he plays from the baseline, and this lead to rallies where Ancic came up second best.  Nadal did not struggle much in the 6-2, 6-2 victory.  Unlike Rainer Schuettler who was able to attack Nadal and pressure him off the ground.  Ancic was not able to do this.

Up next for Nadal will be the winner of Sam Querrey and John Isner.  The two square off in the last match this evening.  Querrey and Isner have only played each other once, and that was three weeks ago in Memphis.  The two went to Acapulco to get some practice on clay, but both lost in the first round, and then headed to Serbia to play Davis Cup.