Riding high on their Roland Garros doubles success, Paris champion Ryan Harrison and finalist Donald Young transitioned to grass in the singles draw. If you read the cards according to the rankings, it's easy to believe that Young’s match would have been the more challenging contest but not so today.

Dimitrov d. Harrison 6-3 6-1

Harrison took the court in the heat of the afternoon to face world No.11 and 2014 Queens Champion, Grigor Dimitrov. The Bulgarian has had a mixed 2017 season with some brilliant successes but a lack of consistency to win titles. Surely, he is eager to change his luck in London. Dimitrov captured the first break in game 4. And, after twenty-nine minutes, he owned the first set despite 5 aces delivered by Harrison.

It seemed Harrison could not overcome doubt and never really got into the second set. He held serve only once and Dimitrov produced a demoralizing service game with 4-consecutive aces to go up 3-1. In the end, Dimitrov won 88% of his 1st serve points - numbers that were just too good.

Young d. Kyrgios 7-6 0-0 ret.

Donald Young' s match would prove to be more dramatic. A somewhat hobbled Kyrgios visibly struggled with movement. He attributes this to a hip injury that has plagued him this season. However, credit is due to Young. The first set had quality and the American displayed the doubles skills that landed him in the Roland Garros final just weeks ago. Ironically, in Paris, he played fellow American Harrison and partner Michael Venus of New Zealand for the title.

Today, Young had shot-making variety and he stayed focused and in points. He held his grip and nerve in the tie-break and came thru, 7-3. Young also showed heart. Toward the end of the 1st set, the Australian went down and was clearly in pain. Showing concern and good sportsmanship, Young crossed the net to check on his opponent and mate.

While Kyrgios would recover to finish the set still producing solid first strike tennis, he retired at the start of the 2nd set, later stating there was “no point playing on if I am feeling pain in my hip.” He remains focused on Wimbledon.

Although down, Kyrgios was not out, stating, “there are worse things in the world than a guy slipping playing tennis. I'm sure I'll live.” And he hinted that perhaps he might be found at the Dog & Fox pub later.

Young advances to play the victor of a match between two Serbs in Viktor Troicki and Janko Tipsarevic. Stay tuned as there are plenty of Americans in the draw, John Isner, Sam Querrey and Steve Johnson.