Wayne Odesnik, banned after admitting he imported human growth hormone (HGH) to Australia, was a loser Wednesday at the $1.4 million Washington Classic in his first ATP appearance in 16 months. Czech Radek Stepanek, ranked 54th in the world, ripped the 25-year-old South African-born American left-hander 6-1, 6-1 in 57 minutes to reach the third round of the US Open hardcourt tuneup event. Odesnik made his first ATP main draw since his ban as a lucky loser with a first-round bye after US second seed Mardy Fish, ranked eighth in the world, withdrew on Monday with a bruised right heel. “It’s great to be back playing at the ATP level,” Odesnik said. “Win or lose, this time around I want to enjoy it more and appreciate it more. “I’m excited. It has rejuvenated my career. In that sense, it’s only going to help my career.” Odesnik was arrested in January of 2010 in Brisbane with eight vials of HGH and pleaded guilty to bringing the banned performance-enhancing substance into Australia but denied taking HGH. He never tested positive for the drug. Odesnik was banned for two years in May of 2010 after pleading guilty to importing HGH into Australia.
