Pablo Carreno Busta beat debutant Matteo Berrettini in the first round of National Bank Open, here on Tuesday.
The Spaniard, who lost against Berrettini in straight sets in the fourth round of this year's Australian Open, avenged that defeat with a 6-3, 6-2 victory.
The 26-year old Berrettini is working his way back from March right hand surgery, which has limited him to just four tournaments since Indian Wells. Covid-19 also forced him to miss Wimbledon.
Busta took full advantage with a ruthless display of consistent aggression. The Spaniard prevented his opponent from finding a rhythm without risking too much himself. After securing a second service break in the second set, the 31-year-old let out a big roar knowing the finish line was in sight.
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In a battle of former Top 10 players in the ATP Rankings, Busta did not face a break point to triumph after one hour and 17 minutes. The six-time ATP Tour titlist will next play Next Gen ATP Dane Holger Rune or Italian qualifier Fabio Fognini.
