Mikhail Youzhny produced a blood, sweat and tears performance to defeat Nicolas Almagro 7-6(4) 3-6 7-6(6) in a high drama encounter which resembled a gory boxing match after a self-inflicted injury to the Russian's head started oozing blood.

Two points from defeat Youzhny in a fit of rage hit himself over the head repeatedly with his racquet, and was forced to call the trainer when he noticed blood seep from a cut to his forehead. After having the wound dressed, the Russian came back and won 7 points in a row starting with a forehand return which he ripped down the line for a clean winner.

The brave Russian also came from 2-4 behind in the final set breaker and secured his victory on his second match point when Almagro's chipped backhand found the net.

"I was too much nervous, made too many mistakes", a blood stained Youzhny said.

"I would serve and make mistake, but after it was easy to come back", he added.

Asked if he made a habit of whacking himself over the head until he bled, Youzhny laughed "No! First time. It helped me so maybe I should have done it earlier, not when it is 5-4 and 30-30. I just went a little bit crazy."

Youzhny's reward is a 4th round encounter with Janko Tipsarevic who overcame Thomas Johansson 6-4 6-4.

Andy Roddick booked his place in the fourth round with a 7-6(4) 6-4 victory over Ivo Minar of the Czech republic.

There were straight sets wins for defending champion Serena Williams and world number 1 Justine Henin who will face-off in the quarterfinals tomorrow in a repeat of last year's final.

Andre Jones

Key Biscayne

Miami