US Open: Paes-Begemann bow out in first round of doubles

The Indo-German pair lose 6-2, 5-7, 4-6 to Stephane Robert/Dudi Sela in first round of men's doubles.

Leander Paes and his German partner Andre Begemann were knocked out in the first round of men's doubles at the US Open after losing to the Stephane Robert-Dudi Sela 6-2 5-7 4-6 on Saturday.

Despite starting on a positive note after taking the first set 6-2, Paes and Begemann lost the next set by a narrow margin (5-7).

In the decider set, the Indo-German were on the road to victory after racing to a 4-2 lead. But, the rival pair waged a brilliant fightback and won four consecutive games to clinch the tie.

Paes and Begemann were one of the top contenders after reaching the final of Winston-Salem Open only a week ago.

43-year old Paes is still a favourite to retain his mixed doubles title with legendary Swiss partner Martina Hingis.

The Indo-Swiss pair had earlier advanced into the second round outplaying Sachia Vickery/Frances Tiafoe 6-3 6-2.