Nadal, Roddick head third round

Published: 6:42AM Friday January 18, 2008 Source: Reuters

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Second seed Rafael Nadal continues his quest for a maiden Australian Open title when he meets France's Gilles Simon in the third round on Friday.

Three times French Open champion Nadal struggled in the night session in the first round but was more convincing in the second against France's Florent Serra and will be pleased his match is the last one in the day session on Rod Laver Arena.

"Last year I had some night matches and it's tough," said Nadal. "If it's possible I prefer (to) play day session."

Nadal's potential quarter-final opponent Andy Roddick, who blasted Germany's Michael Berrer off the court in their second round match, will again end the day's proceedings with a tough match-up against Philipp Kohlshcreiber.

The German won the Heineken Open last week, beating former world number one Juan Carlos Ferrero in the final, and Roddick is only too aware of his recent good form.

"I'm definitely aware of the fact that he's been steadily rising in the rankings," said Roddick. "Each year his year-end ranking is higher.

"And I'm definitely aware of his form so far this year, winning in Auckland and winning his first two matches here."

Women's top seed Justine Henin, who is returning to Melbourne Park after skipping last year's tournament due to her divorce, opens the day's proceedings against tough Italian Francesca Shiavone.

The world number one has so far dominated her 25th-ranked opponent, having won all five previous encounters.

Local interest will be concentrated on West Australia's Casey Dellacqua, who has made a grand slam third round for the first time, and her match against 2006 champion Amelie Mauresmo.

The French woman, who was hampered by injury in 2007, has been quietly progressing through the draw outside of the limelight though if she beats Dellacqua, she could face third seed Jelena Jankovic in the fourth round.

The Serb has been out of sorts at Melbourne Park, complaining of fatigue, and must first beat 30th seed Virginie Razzano of France.

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