Istanbul Open: Jarkko Nieminen sets up second round clash with Roger Federer
Jarkko Nieminen of Finland dashed the hopes of an anticipating crowd to witness their local hero take on Roger Federer, when he ousted Marsel Ilhan, Turkey's number one player, to book a second round date with the 17-time Grand Slam champion.
Nieminen got the better of Ilhan in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4, saving eight break points throughout the match. In a match that lasted one hour and 17 minutes, Ilhan failed to win the decisive moments and the Finn sailed to his 400th career win.
On the back of this terrific accomplishment, Nieminen will look to register his first victory against Federer, who has won all of their previous 14 meetings.
Federer received a bye in the first round and, following his third-round exit at the Monte Carlo Masters, will look to begin his Istanbul campaign on a winning note against Nieminen.
Meanwhile, Mikhail Kukushkin of Ukraine saved seven break points en route a 6-3, 6-4 win against Alexandr Nedovyesov. Diego Schwartzmann set up a second round meeting with Jurgen Melzer, following his win against qualifier Blaz Kavcic in straight sets, 6-2, 6-1. Steve Darcis forfeited the match against Melzer, who was leading 5-2 in the first set, owing to a wrist injury.