After Asiad Miss, Yuki Bhambri Knocked Out in US Open Round 1

Bhambri failed to go through the first round of US Open as he lost 3-6 6-7 (3-7) 5-7 to Pierre Hugues Herbert.

India’s Yuki Bhambri reacts to a lost point at the Australian Open earlier this year. Image used for representational purpose.

(Photo: AP)

India's top singles player Yuki Bhambri failed to clear the first round hurdle of a Grand Slam, losing to Frenchman Pierre Hugues Herbert in straight sets at the US Open.

Bhambri, who is world No 96 lost 3-6, 6-7, (3-7), 5-7 to Herbert in a match that lasted nearly two and half hours.

The Indian did put up a fight in the second and third sets but that wasn’t enough to beat the world No 75, who had earlier got better of the Delhi boy during the Maharashtra Open.

There wasn't much to choose statistically between the two players even though Herbert converted a couple of more breakpoints.

However, what made the difference was the Frenchman being able to unleash winners at various key moments. In all, he hit 13 winners in three sets while Bhambri failed to hit any.

Interestingly, the top rated Indian player had opted out of the ongoing Asian Games to take part in the US Open. The Asian Games are being held in Indonesia and Indian athletes have won 50 medals yet.