Flushed out
TENNIS Noah Rubin’s first grand slam appearance ended in disappointment, but the Junior Wimbledon champion certainly did not look out of place at the US Open at Flushing Meadows.
Having played an exhibition match against Novak Djokovic last week, Rubin went down in straight sets against Federico Delbonis of Argentina in the first roundof theMen’sSingles,butthe18-yearoldtooksomepositivesfromhisperformance.
“I learned that I can definitely compete with these guys at the best level, but there are definitely things to learn,” said Rubin.
“Nerves came into play a little bit, but I know my fitness can definitely be at a higher level.
“I’m just getting used to the atmosphere, getting used to being out there with the top players in the world.”
WayneOdesnikwentdowninstraight sets against 10th-seeded Kai Nishikori in his first appearance at the competition for five years.
Having received a wild card, Odesnik, 28, said that he will return to the Challenger circuit to boost his ranking.
He said: “I’m trying to enjoy it as best that I can and I have a lot of playing ahead of me.’’
Shahar Peer powered into round two with a 6-2, 6-3 win over England’s Johanna Konta (121), but Julia Glushko, Camila Giorgi, Sharon Fichman tumbled out.