DDN Correspondent

India's Somdev Devvarman crashed out of the second round of the Citi Open tennis today after suffering a 5-7, 5-7 defeat against American John Isner.

It may be recalled that Somdev had defeated Isner in their NCAA Dvision 1 championship final six years ago, their last meeting in a professional match.

The big-serving Isner did  did not face a break point and claimed ten break points to beat Somdev, who served well to put up a strong fight.

“It doesn’t seem like it’s been that long. I remember that match like it was yesterday,” Isner was quoted as saying after the match.  “That’s actually the last time we’ve played, which is kind of crazy.” Isner added.

Isner has grown as a player in the last couple of years and always remains in the top 20s list, while Somdev managed to reach a career best of 62 two years ago and is always dogged by injuries.

The Indian is currently ranked 129. Isner however, praised Somdev after the match, saying:  “I knew it was going to be a tough match. Somdev’s an extremely tough opponent, he’s always been tough for me, especially.”

“I always tease him I was able to get the team ring, something he was never able to do, but he won the NCAA singles title, something I was never able to do. He’s a great player and he’s also a good friend,” he added.