In a surprise move, Viktor Troicki retired after losing 6-2 in the first set after an abdominal strain.  I’m sure someone is likely to suggest that this might have been “arranged” so Djokovic would not tire himself early on, at least in hushed whispers.  In any case, Djokovic is the first player to reach the fourth round.

Nicolas Almagro is about to conclude a straight set win over Ivan Ljubicic.  Almagro won a key 2nd set tiebreak, 10 points to 8, and appears to be up a break in the third set.

Andy Roddick is struggling in his match against Robin Haase.  Haase was seen as a “successor” to Richard Krajicek and is roughly the age of Nadal, Djokovic, etc.  Injuries have hampered him.  He pushed Rafa to 5 sets at Wimbledon last year.  This could be a signature win for Haase.  However, Roddick is a savvy veteran, so one shouldn’t give up hope yet.

Justine Henin and Svetlana Kuznetsova just started their match.  This is important because Roger Federer plays Xavier Malisse after this match is concluded.

Now that we’re in the 3rd round, there are many fewer matches being played.  64 matches were played over Day 1 and Day 2.  32 matches were played over Day 3 and Day 4.  Only 8 matches are played today (and 8 more tomorrow).

The Australian Open has a pretty aggressive schedule, trying to complete a round every two days.  Other tournaments spread early rounds over 3 days.  The advantage of the Australian Open is a more leisurely pace at the end.  For example, the US Open has always wanted the semifinals on Saturday and the finals on Sunday to maximize viewers, while all other Slams have the men play the semifinals on Friday and the finals on Sunday.