Somdev Devvarman, Sania Mirza set a first for India in a slam

By Larry Fine

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Somdev Devvarman and Sania Mirza posted first-round victories on opening day of the U.S. Open to become the first man and woman from India to reach the second round of the same grand slam event.

Mirza defeated Olga Govortsova of Belarus 6-2 3-6 6-3, and qualifier Devvarman beat Portugal's Frederico Gil 6-3 6-4 6-3.

"For a long time... I was the only one (from India) playing singles in the main draw of the grand slams," said 22-year-old Mirza, playing in her fourth U.S. Open.

"It's great that Somdev is playing so well since the beginning of the year and getting better.

"I'm really happy that we have two Indians in the second round of a slam. I don't know if it's ever happened before."

Devvarman added: "I don't want to jinx myself but I feel good about where I am. I've had a couple of quality wins.

"It gives me a lot of confidence and belief that I can come out and compete with anyone. My game is up there with the rest."

The International Tennis Federation confirmed they became the first Indian duo to advance together in slam singles.