Chennai: Czech Republic's Radek Stepanek, the No 2 seed, moved one step forward in his quest to begin the New Year winning a title, but not before struggling hard to edge out qualifier Ivan Navarro Pastor of Spain.
Radek won 6-4, 7-6 to enter Round II of the ATP tour Chennai Open 2006 at the Nungambakkam stadium on Tuesday.
Ranked 19 on the ATP Tour, the Czech, serving steadier in an essentially serve volley contest, managed to reign in his opponent in the tie break after winning the first set easily, breaking Navarro in the ninth game.
The Spaniard was getting his first serves in better and the second went on serves till Stepanek, who failed to capitalise on his chances edged his rival out in the tie break.
"I watched him playing his final qualifying match yesterday. I knew it was difficult for him today after playing three matches in the qualifying round yesterday," he said.
The Czech, who declared his objective was to win the tournament at least this year, said he was disappointed about losing often in the semifinals on the Tour.
"I will do everything to win if I get to the final again," Stepanek said, adding, "I will be more focussed."
Stepanek said Navarro was playing a sound serve volley game.
"His first serve was good. I had more chances in the second set. But I did not utilise them. But I made it in the tie break," he said.
Answering questions on his playing doubles and rule changes, Stepanek said although he had not been able to concentrate full time on doubles, he said rules had been changed thrice in a short span.
"The latest change need not have been made. I can't decide. Being a professional, I have to keep playing whatever the rules area."
Stepanek said he made efforts to turn full time doubles player.
"I spoke to Leander Paes to play doubles with him. I was disappointed it did not work out. Leander is one of the best doubles players," Stepanek added.
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