American Andy Roddick has progressed to the second of the SAP Open after defeating compatriot Ryler Deheart in straight sets 6-1 7-6 (7-1).
The top-seed looked on course for an easy victory after breezing through the first set in just 23 minutes.
However a spirited fight-back from Deheart in set two resulted in the qualifier breaking Roddick's serve in the second game.
The 26-year-old had the chance to take the match into a decider when serving for the set at 5-4.
But it was Roddick who broke back and forced the game into a tie-break, comfortably winning 7-1.
Success
This was the first match that the world number seven has competed in since the Australian Open and despite concerns over a shoulder and knee injury, there were no signs of discomfort.
Roddick will be hoping to make this his fourth title at the SAP Open, previously winning the tournament back in 2004, 2005 and 2008.
And this opening victory has set up a second-round encounter with Leonardo Mayer, following the Argentine's 7-5 6-4 win over Ernests Gulbis.
Elsewhere in the tournament it was a bad day for defending champion Radek Stepanek, with the 2009 winner going out at the first hurdle after a 6-3 6-4 defeat to Belgian Xavier Malisse.
German Tommy Haas also bowed out in the early stages, beaten by Denis Istomin 7-6 (7-3) 6-2 in the second round.
