Dimitrov and Hurkacz cruise to round two of Erste Bank Open in Vienna

Grigor Dimitrov and Hubert Hurkacz cruised past Khachanov and Balasz to reach the Erste Bank Open round 2.

Grigor Dimitrov was the first man the step onto the courts in Vienna today and he was convincing in his victory over Karen Khachanov. The 85-minute affair ended with the Bulgarian winning 7-6(6) 6-3. The start of the match didn't favour Dimitrov as Khachanov played a bit better. Those early struggles caused him to lose his serve early but a lapse in focus for Karen allowed Dimitrov to fight back and tie the score. After that, both players settled nicely and served their way into a tiebreak. It was an exciting one where both had their chances but ultimately the Russian made too many mistakes and Grigor won it 8-6.

The 2nd set opened with a visibly annoyed Khachanov rushing from one mistake to another. Dimitrov kept his composure and jumped out to an early 3-0 lead. After the initial disappointment, Khachanov settled a bit but the damage was already done and Dimitrov cruised to a 6-3 finish.

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The 2nd match featured Hurkacz and Balasz. The Hungarian player entered the main draw via the qualification and pretty early it became clear he was outplayed. Hurkacz came out focused and broke him early to take a 3-0 lead. He would go on to hold his lead until the end of the set which he won with 6-3. Hurkacz served well enough and Balasz struggled with his serve as he didn't have the clay surface he enjoys to absorb the powerful serve. The 2nd set was much more exciting with Hubert taking an early lead but Balasz found a way to fight back.

He would take the lead once more but once again the Hungarian bounced back. Late in the set Hurkacz resolved to win the match and he broke Balasz to take the lead before ending the match. A good effort from the Polish player who won in just under 90 minutes 6-3 7-5.

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Off to a hot start 🔥🔥 🇧🇬 @GrigorDimitrov moves past Khachanov 7-6(6), 6-3. @ErsteBankOpen | #ErsteBankOpen

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