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Safin pulls out three-set win over American qualifier

(Reuters)
Updated: 2007-05-09 09:22

ROME - Marat Safin overcame a rough start before beating American qualifier Amer Delic 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 Tuesday in the first round of the Rome Masters.

Safin lost 12 straight points to lose the first set. The former top-ranked Russian regained his composure in the second set, converting his first break of the match to lead 5-3 then serving out to love.

Safin broke in the opening game of the third set and maintained the advantage the rest of the way.

"He started pretty well and was hitting unbelievable winners on the lines _ I couldn't get into the game," Safin said. "But then I tried to make him run and play more. It was just a matter of time."

Radek Stepanek of the Czech Republic advanced when 11th-seeded Tommy Haas retired with a right shoulder injury. Stepanek was leading 6-3, 3-2 over the 2002 finalist.

Also, 2006 Australian Open runner-up Marcos Baghdatis knocked out 2004 Rome champion Carlos Moya 6-2, 6-3. Baghdatis saved all eight breakpoints he faced.

The 12th-seeded Tomas Berdych beat Jarkko Nieminen 6-4, 7-5.

Later Tuesday, top-ranked Roger Federer was to open against Nicolas Almagro in the second round. The top eight seeded players had byes in the first round.

Safin has never advanced past the third round in his seven previous appearances in Rome. He'll next face Davis Cup teammate and fourth-seeded Nikolay Davydenko.

"Next round, I'm going to have to play better to win," Safin said.