Isner vs. Radek on the court in Cincy on Tuesday afternoon

American John Isner will look to continue his good summer hard court season as he takes the court in his opener against Washington champ Radek Stepanek.

This first round match-up between world No. 27 John Isner and No. 29 Radek Stepanek promises quick points, big serving, many forays into net from Stepanek – and likely a tiebreaker or 2. Isner is a player who has earned his living, by and large, with his serve. The American stands at 6’9” and often finds himself on top of the ace leader board at tournaments. The problem for Isner rarely comes on serve, but on his return. The big man is not a great retriever or mover.

Stepanek’s version of ultra-aggressive tennis worked well in Washington DC. The Czech man came from out of nowhere to take the 500 level tournament.

For his part, Isner has had some good results on the hardcourts this summer as well, with a final in Atlanta and the semis in Washington.