Aussie Open Men’s Action

In men’s singles action, Roger Federer encountered little resistance from Jonas Bjorkman, cruising to a three set victory in 94 minutes (6-2, 6-3, 6-2). Federer will play Russia’s U.S. Mikhail Youzhny on Friday. Andy Roddick overtook Frenchman Marc Gicquel (6-3, 7-6, 6-4) and will play Marat Safin on Friday. Safin beat Israeli Dudi Sela to advance (6-3, 5-7, 4-6, 7-6 (7-4), 6-0). Men’s number five seed James Blake has also made the third round of Australian Open 2007, beating fellow American Alex Kuznetsov (6-4, 6-1, 6-2); Blake wrapped up the game in just 82 minutes. Rising star Gael Monfils of France defeated Marcos Baghdatis of Cypress in four sets (7-6(5), 6-2, 2-6, 6-0). Monfils will now meet good friend and countryman Richard Gasquet.