It was over quickly but it was definitely not painless for fourth seeded Andy Roddick at the 2005 U.S. Open. Playing on his 23rd birthday, Roddick was defeated in three straight sets by Gilles Muller of Luxembourg, 7-6, 7-6, 7-6.
Muller, 22, is ranked 68th in the world and is making his first ever appearance at the U.S. Open. He out hustled and even out-aced Roddick who is known for his booming serve, 24-17.
Muller was amazed at his own performance. 'For me, it was just unbelievable to come out here today,' Muller said. 'I told myself to enjoy it and I did every minute.'
When a reporter asked Muller how he beat Roddick, Muller simply said, 'I have no idea.'
Roddick was thoroughly frustrated after blowing a 5-2 lead in the first set before losing a tie breaker. After that, the fourth seeded Roddick seemed to lose his composure.
'I don't really remember a loss where I've felt this bad afterwards,' Roddick said. 'I love playing here. I probably had the best practice week I've ever had in leadup. It just didn't translate tonight. ... I'm in a little bit of shock right now, to be honest. I'd give anything to go back four hours right now.'
At Flushing Meadows, Roddick will get another chance. Unfortunately for him, it won't come until 2006.
