The United States rallied to defeat Serbia and Montenegro 2-1 at the Hopman Cup on Sunday, after Lisa Raymond had slumped 6-2, 6-4 to Ana Ivanovic.
Taylor Dent put the Americans level by outplaying Novak Djokovic 6-1, 6-4, and then teamed with Raymond to win the mixed doubles 7-6, 6-2.
Ivanovic dominated Raymond for much of the match, overpowering her from the baseline and striking several blistering returns.
The 18-year-old gave up just four points on her serve in the opening set, breaking for 2-0 and then again for the set with a winner off a second serve.
Ivanovic then leapt to a 4-0 lead in the second set and appeared ready to claim a swift victory. But she failed to maintain her aggression and allowed her experienced opponent back into the match.
A double-fault gave Raymond a break in the fifth game, and Ivanovic's lack of pace allowed the American to come to the net and put away some easy volleys, claiming the next three games to level at 4-4.
But Ivanovic turned on the power again to hold the ninth game, and went on to break Raymond for the match.
"In the first set I played very good and then I was 4-0 up, and she had some very good shots and was putting me a little bit under pressure," said Ivanovic. "I was not moving that well, but I'm really pleased that I took my opportunities at 4-4 and won the set."
Djokovic hustled well against Dent, but although the American managed only three aces he served consistently well and struck some fine backhand volleys to earn a comfortable victory.
Djokovic failed to hold serve in the first set, claiming his only game of the set as Dent double-faulted when leading 2-0.
But he offered a more solid challenge in the second set and there was just one break point, which Dent converted as Djokovic made a forehand error at 3-3.
"The first match of the year is hard going, but I played good when I had to and came out with the win," said Dent.
The American admitted that success relied largely on his powerful serve working smoothly.
"It's huge," he said. "It's the biggest part of my game. I feel that when I'm serving well and guys aren't really getting a good crack at returns I give everybody a tough time. But when it's not working I really struggle.
"And hopefully when I get used to playing matches again you'll see a little bit more foot speed than I normally have. I've been working really hard over the past six months. I've slimmed down and am a little bit quicker around the court."
Wayne Arthurs, who suffered a right calf injury during his singles defeat by Nicolas Kiefer on Saturday, has been replaced in the Australian team by Todd Reid. Reid is the 200th player to take part in the 18-year old event.
