Legg Mason Day 2: Gulbis, Odesnik Survive Rough Patches

WASHINGTON--The opening day of main draw action at the Legg Mason Tennis Classic in Washington DC started off with two tough three set matches, with the oppressive heat and humidity playing a role in both matches.

Wayne Odesnik (USA) def. Paul Capdeville (CHI) 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 --This was a fun match between a very flashy righty (Capdeville) and a more solid counterpuncher (Odesnik).  In the end, the heat was too much for Capdeville, and his exhaustion let Odesnik take control of the second half of the match.

Ernests Gulbis (LAT) def. Kevin Kim (USA) 7-5, 3-6, 6-3 -- Gulbis was battling stomach discomfort the whole match, an ailment which he later attributed to a cream-based pasta sauce consumed just before he played.  I'm no former grand slam finalist, but even I know that's a horrible idea.

I got a chance to interview both Gulbis and Odesnik after their wins--those should be up early tomorrow.

To see photos of the day, including those two matches and Andy Roddick's practice with Igor Kunitsyn, visit The Daily Forehand's Picasa albums.