Gasquet grinds through as Llodra quits injured

0 Comments | AFP, July, 2008

CINCINNATI, Ohio (AFP) — Richard Gasquet advanced through an all-French showdown at the Cincinnati Masters with a minimum of effort on Tuesday as Michael Llodra retired trailing 3-6, 6-1, 1-0 with an arm injury.

"I saw it when I break him at 4-2 in the first set," said Gasquet, 23-15 this season.

"It was difficult for me. I wasn't in a great shape and it was hot."

This was the second straight meeting between the two, with Gasquet also winning their first-round contest a week ago in Toronto.

"I knew he had a problem with his knee, with his shoulder, so I had to fight. I played better and better, and after he stopped.

"I'm not happy because he's a friend and he has a pain, but it's good for me."

Gasquet moved into a match with Russian...