Two days after spearheading Thailand to a 3-2 victory over Taiwan in the Davis Cup, Danai cited exhaustion after the long trans-Pacific flight as one cause for his 6-3 6-4 defeat to the American, ranked 64th in the world.

"I was still tired from my long trip from Asia. That's why I did not play well on important points," Danai said. "But I have to give credit to Spadea. He played really well and attacked me whenever he had the chance."

Danai has also entered the doubles competition and will team up with Denmark's Kristian Pless. The pair is drawn to face American Eric Butorac and Briton Jamie Murray in the first round.

Third-seeded Andy Murray, who won his first career ATP Tour title last season in the SAP Open, began his defence of the crown on a winning note.

Fourth-seed Marat Safin, who helped Russia beat Chile 3-2 in the first-round of the Davis Cup last weekend, advanced to the second round with a 6-4 7-6 (7/3) victory over American Scott Oudsema.

Roddick will begin his quest today for a third crown at the SAP Open.

The Nation, Agencies

SAN JOSE, California