Last year's Roland Garros finalist, Jannik Sinner, launched his campaign at the clay-court major with a commanding showing, sailing past world No. 171 Clement Tabur in straight sets, advancing to the second round on Tuesday night.
World number one Jannik Sinner set off his quest to complete the Career Grand Slam with a straightforward 6-1, 6-3, 6-4 win over French wild card Clement Tabur in two hours and eight minutes, reaching the second round at Roland Garros.
In his on-court interview, he commented, “I’m very happy to be back here. It’s a very special place, and I have great memories overall.
"First round matches are never easy, but it’s even more special to start the tournament during a night session."
Back on Court Philippe-Chatrier a year after writing history by playing a memorable five-set championship match alongside eventual two-time champion Carlos Alcaraz, the Italian returns with the Coupe des Mousquetaires in sight.
Alcaraz, Sinner's main rival, may not be competing at the Slam this season, sidelined by a right wrist injury. Still, the path to a maiden French Open title does not lack high-caliber competitors, all chasing glory on Parisian soil.
The 26-year-old lived up to the occasion, going from strength to strength throughout; however, his efforts were cut short by the four-time Grand Slam champion.
With the win, Sinner became the fourth man this century to win 30 matches in a row.
Overall, the 24-year-old did not face a break point in the entire match, hitting 40 winners (8 aces) to 21 unforced errors, converted five of 13 break points, and won 80 percent of the points on his first serve.
Unrelenting, the Italian Open champion imposed his game from the outset, playing with aggression from the baseline on his way to take the first set 6-1 in 32 minutes.
The San Candido native took control of the lengthy baseline rallies, ripping forehands and holding his ground under pressure while mastering the art of reading his opponent to stay one step ahead.
Also, he generated some spectacular volleys and drop shots across the encounter.
Next, he will face off against world No. 56 Juan Manual Cerundolo, who prevailed over British player Jacob Fearnley 6-2, 7-6(0), 7-6(7) earlier on Tuesday.
Sinner leads Cerundolo 1-0, having met at Wimbledon in 2023, a first-round match the former took in straight sets.