| Tuesday, 24 June 2008 Written by Barry Newcombe Richard Gasquet gave his many supporters in France belief that he can put together another good run at Wimbledon by beating the American Mardy Fish 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 on Court No. 1. "I love to play in London, I am ready for this moment. I feel good, I have practiced a lot and I had no problems today," said Gasquet, who reached the semi-finals for the first time last year. The 22-year-old is currently the best grass court player in France, having taken over from two-time Wimbledon semi-finalist Sebastien Grosjean, who he now faces in the next round. Gasquet's run to the last four in 2007 came after a classic five-set victory over Andy Roddick. That set up a meeting with Roger Federer, but Gasquet used the run as a learning exercise. This year Wimbledon have made the Frenchman the eighth seed, which sets up a potential quarter-final against Rafael Nadal. But that was far from Gasquet’s thoughts as he began the task of beating Fish, who has a good grass-court record with two finals at Nottingham. Gasquet quickly took command against the 26-year-old with the first set coming his way after 36 minutes, the second six minutes longer, the third an easier 32 minutes. Gasquet served 10 aces in the match, his best serving period coming in the second set when he hit 63 per cent of first serves in. His service speed averaged 118 mph and all the figures added up to the Frenchman being in command. "It was a good match for me," he said. "I like to play on this court but it is because I had practiced well and played good." There is pressure on Gasquet to spearhead the French challenge after Gael Monfils withdrew before the start of The Championships. Against Fish, he looked more than ready for what will be a tough test against Grosjean.
| Court 1 - Gentlemen's Singles - 1st Round | |
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