Somdev Devvarman advanced to the second round of the $619,500 Farmers Classic singles event with a straight set victory over local qualifier Steve Johnson in Los Angeles.
Somdev, who made it to the main draw through a qualifier, beat his American opponent 6-4, 6-4 in the first round match which lasted one and half hours.
The Indian, currently ranked 103 in the world, was clearly the dominating player but had to dig deep into his reserves to win long rallies against his opponent.
He faces sixth seed and World No 45 Janko Tipsaveric in the second round.
Indian Davis Cupper Rohan Bopanna is competing in the doubles draw along with Pakistani partner Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi.
The fourth seed pair will open its campaign against British combination of Colin Fleming and Ken Skupski.
