Generali Open, Kitzbuhel

[9] Dominic Thiem (AUT) vs. [421] Jurgen Melzer (AUT)

They met three years ago at this tournament and Thiem won 7-5, 6-3.  Thiem has been one of the hottest players on Tour this season, winning four tournaments already.  Jurgen Melzer is all but retired and although he can still play, I did not give him much chance against Thiem.  I am trying to figure out if Thiem was injured or if he simply has over-committed himself and was just flat today.  Whatever the reason, Melzer played the match of his life and he knocked out the number one seed in straight sets 6-3, 7-5.  Interestingly, he sets up a meeting with his younger brother [107] Gerald Melzer.  We have seen how playing your sibling can be emotionally difficult and can negatively impact your game if you have not found a way to compartmentalize your emotions about playing a loved one.  How will the younger brother cope with playing his brother,  who was his idol growing up?

KERBER AVOIDS THE UPSET BUG

Ericsson Open, Bastad

[2] Angelique Kerber (GER) vs. [664] Cornelia Lister (SWE)

Another number one seed was threatened but managed to fight off the challenge from her much lower ranked opponent.  Kerber was battling an injured left forearm and dropped the first set to Lister.  Yet, despite looking uncomfortable and struggling with her serve, I never doubted she would find a way to defeat her much less experienced opponent.  Kerber won 2-6, 6-4, 6-2.  Her next opponent, Lara Arruabarrena, may be just as challenging if Kerber’s arm continues to be an issue.  Kerber won all three previous encounters; however, Arruabarrena pushed her to three sets earlier this year on clay.  Will Kerber prevail or will she be upset in round two?