Fernando Verdasco begins his 2011 US Open on Grandstand Arena against Finland's Jarkko Nieminen.
Verdasco enjoyed the best US Open of his career in 2010, winning a magical five setter in the fourth round against David Ferrer on the way to the quarters and he could be set for an exciting clash against fellow power merchant Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the third round if things go according to the seedings.
Verdasco will have spent the past fortnight trying to put the disappointment of losing again to Rafa Nadal, behind him. Verdasco has never ever beaten his compatriot despite many heroic attempts and he had possibly his best shot in Cincinnati. Rafa looked unsure of himself and set up camp deep behind the baseline, leading to a thrilling four hour cat and mouse battle. Verdasco had the match in his grasp but could not seize the moment and was ultimately left wringing his hands in frustration.
He may not be in the top ten anymore but he's still a marquee draw against tenacious defensive players like Nadal and Ferrer. Unfortunately this one will not be particularly exciting. Nieminen's lost the edge to his game over the past five years and he's in the twilight of his career. He scraped over the 300 career win mark on the tour earlier this month and it may not be long before he announces his retirement.
Prediction: Verdasco in three.
