John Isner rode his fierce serve to another victory on Newport's grass courts, defeating Wayne Odesnik 6-3, 7-6 (6) Tuesday to reach the second round of the Hall of Fame Tennis Championships in Newport, R.I.

The 6-foot-10 Isner had 19 aces - with one serve topping 137 mph - and only two double-faults in raising his career record at Newport to 14-3.

"I'm glad that I'm here and hopefully I can keep it going," he said. "I've had good memories here in the past."

Isner, the highest-ranked American at No. 12, won at Newport 2011 and 2012. He is seeded first at Newport for the third time in four years.

Defending champion Nicolas Mahut of France, the No. 4 seed, defeated Facundo Arguello of Argentina 7-6 (1), 6-4.

"I feel like almost home," he said. "I have my habits. I go to the same restaurant. Every year I'm waiting for this tournament."

- The Associated Press