ROQUEBRUNE, France (AP) John Isner defeated Gilles Simon 6-3, 6-2, 7-5, pulling the United States even with France after Friday's opening singles in the Davis Cup quarterfinals.
The Americans needed a strong performance from Isner after Jo-Wilfried Tsonga beat teenager Ryan Harrison 7-5, 6-2, 2-6, 6-2 to give France a 1-0 lead.
Simon was called up to replace injured Gael Monfils this week. He has never beaten Isner and could not cope with the American's big serve. Simon also struggled with his own service game on the outdoor clay at Monte Carlo Country Club.
Saturday's doubles in the best-of-five series pits Bob and Mike Bryan against Frenchmen Julien Benneteau and Michael Llodra.