Russian tennis player Yana Sizikova was been detained by Paris police on Friday over the suspicion of fixing a doubles match at the French Open 2020.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-nadal-federer-and-djokovic-progress-barty-retires-with-injury-389370" hreflang="en">French Open: Nadal, Federer, and Djokovic progress, Barty retires with injury</a>

Police and a legal source told AFP, the 26-year-old was detained on Thursday night after a match in the ongoing Roland Garros. Sizikova, who is ranked 101st in the women's doubles rankings, was detained as a part of an investigation into possible corruption and fraud, the source in the Paris prosecutor's office said.

According to the German newspaper Die Welt, the tennis player has been caught up in an investigation opened last October by the Paris prosecutor's office for "organized gang fraud" and for "active and passive sports corruption.

Sizikova and her new partner Ekaterina Alexandrova crashed out of the French Open on Thursday after a heavy defeat in the first round of the women's doubles by Aussie pair Storm Sanders and Ajla Tomljanovic. &nbsp;

Sizikova and Alexandrova were defeated within an hour with scores of 1-6, 1-6.&nbsp;

The match under investigation was played last year. It was between Sizikova and her American partner Madison Brengle against Romanian pair Andreea Mitu and Patricia Maria Tig where the Russian player was defeated.

Russian tennis player Yana Sizikova was been detained by Paris police on Friday over the suspicion of fixing a doubles match at the French Open 2020. ALSO READ: French Open: Nadal, Federer, and Djokovic progress, Barty retires with injury Police and a legal source told AFP, the 26-year-old was detained on Thursday night after a match in the ongoing Roland Garros.

Russian tennis player Yana Sizikova was been detained by Paris police on Friday over the suspicion of fixing a doubles match at the French Open 2020. ALSO READ: French Open: Nadal, Federer, and Djokovic progress, Barty retires with injury Police and a legal source told AFP, the 26-year-old was detained on Thursday night after a match in the ongoing Roland Garros. Sizikova, who is ranked 101st in the women's doubles rankings, was detained as a part of an investigation into possible corruption and fraud, the source in the Paris prosecutor's office said. According to the German newspaper Die Welt, the tennis player has been caught up in an investigation opened last October by the Paris prosecutor's office for "organized gang fraud" and for "active and passive sports corruption. Sizikova and her new partner Ekaterina Alexandrova crashed out of the French Open on Thursday after a heavy defeat in the first round of the women's doubles by Aussie pair Storm Sanders and Ajla Tomljanovic. Sizikova and Alexandrova were defeated within an hour with scores of 1-6, 1-6. The match under investigation was played last year. It was between Sizikova and her American partner Madison Brengle against Romanian pair Andreea Mitu and Patricia Maria Tig where the Russian player was defeated.

French Open: Yana Sizikova detained by police over suspected match-fixing

With so few matches in the tank over the past 17 months, Roger Federer knew the first big test of where his game was at would likely come against Marin Cilic on Thursday.

The 39-year-old Swiss had made his first-round win over Denis Istomin look like an exhibition match as he enjoyed a comfortable return to the Grand Slam area for the first time since losing in the semi-finals of the Australian Open in 2020.

Former U.S. Open champion Cilic, however, was a different proposition in the second round.

The big-hitting Croatian leveled the match at one set apiece and then came from a break down to push Federer into a third-set tiebreak - the outcome of which always looked like being pivotal to the contest.

Federer's response scotched any fears that he might be vulnerable in the heat of battle.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion smoothly pressed the accelerator to take the tiebreak and outclassed Cilic in the fourth set to claim a 6-2 2-6 7-6(4) 6-2 win.

"A very good match for me, I thought," 2009 champion Federer who is making only his second appearance at the French Open since 2015, told reporters.

"The good thing, I feel like I come out of a match like this and I know why it was up and down. And then that I was able to attain a solid level once he did break back in the third set and things were looking dangerous for me, that I was able to step up a gear, stay with him, and then pull away.

"I was able to almost find another gear, which he couldn't, and I think that was very nice for me. So I'm very happy."

Federer, who underwent knee surgery last year, has earmarked Wimbledon as his main target.

But with Germany's 59th-ranked Dominik Koepfer up next, he looks in the mood to make a run into the second week here - although with 13-time French Open winner Rafa Nadal and top seed Novak Djokovic in his half, even his most optimistic fans will be amazed if Federer won the title.

"I hope I can back it up with hopefully another good match," Federer said when asked about his physical condition. "Whatever the outcome is, I know it was definitely the right choice to come here to Paris."

With so few matches in the tank over the past 17 months, Roger Federer knew the first big test of where his game was at would likely come against Marin Cilic on Thursday.

With so few matches in the tank over the past 17 months, Roger Federer knew the first big test of where his game was at would likely come against Marin Cilic on Thursday. The 39-year-old Swiss had made his first-round win over Denis Istomin look like an exhibition match as he enjoyed a comfortable return to the Grand Slam area for the first time since losing in the semi-finals of the Australian Open in 2020. Former U.S. Open champion Cilic, however, was a different proposition in the second round. The big-hitting Croatian leveled the match at one set apiece and then came from a break down to push Federer into a third-set tiebreak - the outcome of which always looked like being pivotal to the contest. Federer's response scotched any fears that he might be vulnerable in the heat of battle. The 20-time Grand Slam champion smoothly pressed the accelerator to take the tiebreak and outclassed Cilic in the fourth set to claim a 6-2 2-6 7-6(4) 6-2 win. "A very good match for me, I thought," 2009 champion Federer who is making only his second appearance at the French Open since 2015, told reporters. "The good thing, I feel like I come out of a match like this and I know why it was up and down. And then that I was able to attain a solid level once he did break back in the third set and things were looking dangerous for me, that I was able to step up a gear, stay with him, and then pull away. "I was able to almost find another gear, which he couldn't, and I think that was very nice for me. So I'm very happy." Federer, who underwent knee surgery last year, has earmarked Wimbledon as his main target. But with Germany's 59th-ranked Dominik Koepfer up next, he looks in the mood to make a run into the second week here - although with 13-time French Open winner Rafa Nadal and top seed Novak Djokovic in his half, even his most optimistic fans will be amazed if Federer won the title. "I hope I can back it up with hopefully another good match," Federer said when asked about his physical condition. "Whatever the outcome is, I know it was definitely the right choice to come here to Paris."

Tennis: Roger Federer happy to find higher gear against Marin Cilic

World number one and former champion Ashleigh Barty limped out of Roland Garros on Thursday, throwing the battle for the women's title wide open as Rafael Nadal prepared to celebrate his 35th birthday inside an empty stadium.

Top seed Barty, already suffering from a left hip injury, retired injured midway through the second set of her second-round match against Poland's 45th-ranked Magda Linette.

The Australian, who won the title on her last visit to Roland Garros in 2019, left the court for medical treatment after losing the first set 6-1.

She then called it quits at 2-2 in the second set on Court Philippe Chatrier.

"It's heartbreaking," Barty said. "It's a miracle I got past the first round."

"We did absolutely everything we could to give myself a chance. It sucks."

The 25-year-old's withdrawal leaves the tournament already without the world's top three-ranked women's players.

World number two Naomi Osaka pulled out following a media boycott, saying she has suffered "bouts of depression" for three years.

Third-ranked Simona Halep, the 2018 French Open winner, withdrew before the event with injury.

That leaves world number four Aryna Sabalenka as the top remaining player in the draw.

Linette goes on to face Ons Jabeur, the Tunisian 25th seed who eased past Australian wild card Astra Sharma 6-2, 6-4.

Fourth seed Sofia Kenin, the 2020 runner-up, saw off American compatriot Hailey Baptiste 7-5, 6-3.

Three-time quarter-finalist and fifth seed Elina Svitolina was similarly untroubled against Ann Li of the United States, winning 6-0, 6-4.

However, ninth seed Karolina Pliskova exited at the hands of 2018 runner-up Sloane Stephens as the 59th-ranked American won 7-5, 6-1.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Nadal dominant -</h2>

&nbsp;

World number three Nadal, bidding for a 14th French Open and record-setting 21st Grand Slam title, faces Richard Gasquet, a player he first met when they were 12 years old.

However, schedulers have handed the Spaniard the evening session, leaving his 35th birthday party celebrations a little flat as the match clashes with a 9pm Covid-19 curfew and a spectator ban.

Gasquet won his first junior clash against Nadal at the Petits As tournament in France in 1999.

Sadly for him, that was as good as it would ever get.

On the ATP Tour, Nadal has monopolised their head-to-head and leads 16-0.

"I don't have many French Opens left to play so I want to make the most of it," said Gasquet who made his debut at the tournament back in 2002.

Gael Monfils' 6-0, 2-6, 6-4, 6-3 defeat by Mikel Ymer of Sweden means Gasquet would have to beat Nadal to avoid the hosts suffering their worst year in men's singles since 1968.

Roger Federer, also the winner of 20 Slams, renews his rivalry with Marin Cilic.

The Swiss star leads their head-to-head 9-1 with Cilic's only win coming in the semi-finals of the 2014 US Open when he went on to claim his only Grand Slam title.

Federer, the 2009 champion in Paris, made the second round with a straight sets win against Uzbek qualifier Denis Istomin.

It was just his second win in 2021 and first at a major since losing to Novak Djokovic in the 2020 Australian Open semi-finals.

Top seed and world number one Djokovic is also in a battle of the over 30s as he faces Uruguay's Pablo Cuevas.

Djokovic, the 2016 champion, is bidding to become the first man in more than half a century to win all four Slams more than once.

<h2>- Alcaraz record -</h2>

At the other end of the spectrum is 18-year-old Carlos Alcaraz who on Monday became the youngest player to win a match at Roland Garros since Djokovic in 2005.

If the Spaniard beats 28th seed Nikoloz Basilashvili, he will be the youngest man to reach the French Open last 32 since Andrei Medvedev in 1992.

Two Italian teens made it through with 18th seeded Jannik Sinner seeing off compatriot Gianluca Mager while highly-rated Lorenzo Musetti put out Japan's Yoshihito Nishioka.

Defending women's champion Iga Swiatek takes on Sweden's Rebecca Peterson.

Swiatek has hit with Nadal this week, a meeting which made her so nervous that the Pole prepared a list of helpful conversation starters should she get tongue-tied.

World number one and former champion Ashleigh Barty limped out of Roland Garros on Thursday, throwing the battle for the women's title wide open as Rafael Nadal prepared to celebrate his 35th birthday inside an empty stadium.

World number one and former champion Ashleigh Barty limped out of Roland Garros on Thursday, throwing the battle for the women's title wide open as Rafael Nadal prepared to celebrate his 35th birthday inside an empty stadium. Top seed Barty, already suffering from a left hip injury, retired injured midway through the second set of her second-round match against Poland's 45th-ranked Magda Linette. The Australian, who won the title on her last visit to Roland Garros in 2019, left the court for medical treatment after losing the first set 6-1. She then called it quits at 2-2 in the second set on Court Philippe Chatrier. "It's heartbreaking," Barty said. "It's a miracle I got past the first round." "We did absolutely everything we could to give myself a chance. It sucks." The 25-year-old's withdrawal leaves the tournament already without the world's top three-ranked women's players. World number two Naomi Osaka pulled out following a media boycott, saying she has suffered "bouts of depression" for three years. Third-ranked Simona Halep, the 2018 French Open winner, withdrew before the event with injury. That leaves world number four Aryna Sabalenka as the top remaining player in the draw. Linette goes on to face Ons Jabeur, the Tunisian 25th seed who eased past Australian wild card Astra Sharma 6-2, 6-4. Fourth seed Sofia Kenin, the 2020 runner-up, saw off American compatriot Hailey Baptiste 7-5, 6-3. Three-time quarter-finalist and fifth seed Elina Svitolina was similarly untroubled against Ann Li of the United States, winning 6-0, 6-4. However, ninth seed Karolina Pliskova exited at the hands of 2018 runner-up Sloane Stephens as the 59th-ranked American won 7-5, 6-1. - Nadal dominant - World number three Nadal, bidding for a 14th French Open and record-setting 21st Grand Slam title, faces Richard Gasquet, a player he first met when they were 12 years old. However, schedulers have handed the Spaniard the evening session, leaving his 35th birthday party celebrations a little flat as the match clashes with a 9pm Covid-19 curfew and a spectator ban. Gasquet won his first junior clash against Nadal at the Petits As tournament in France in 1999. Sadly for him, that was as good as it would ever get. On the ATP Tour, Nadal has monopolised their head-to-head and leads 16-0. "I don't have many French Opens left to play so I want to make the most of it," said Gasquet who made his debut at the tournament back in 2002. Gael Monfils' 6-0, 2-6, 6-4, 6-3 defeat by Mikel Ymer of Sweden means Gasquet would have to beat Nadal to avoid the hosts suffering their worst year in men's singles since 1968. Roger Federer, also the winner of 20 Slams, renews his rivalry with Marin Cilic. The Swiss star leads their head-to-head 9-1 with Cilic's only win coming in the semi-finals of the 2014 US Open when he went on to claim his only Grand Slam title. Federer, the 2009 champion in Paris, made the second round with a straight sets win against Uzbek qualifier Denis Istomin. It was just his second win in 2021 and first at a major since losing to Novak Djokovic in the 2020 Australian Open semi-finals. Top seed and world number one Djokovic is also in a battle of the over 30s as he faces Uruguay's Pablo Cuevas. Djokovic, the 2016 champion, is bidding to become the first man in more than half a century to win all four Slams more than once. - Alcaraz record - At the other end of the spectrum is 18-year-old Carlos Alcaraz who on Monday became the youngest player to win a match at Roland Garros since Djokovic in 2005. If the Spaniard beats 28th seed Nikoloz Basilashvili, he will be the youngest man to reach the French Open last 32 since Andrei Medvedev in 1992. Two Italian teens made it through with 18th seeded Jannik Sinner seeing off compatriot Gianluca Mager while highly-rated Lorenzo Musetti put out Japan's Yoshihito Nishioka. Defending women's champion Iga Swiatek takes on Sweden's Rebecca Peterson. Swiatek has hit with Nadal this week, a meeting which made her so nervous that the Pole prepared a list of helpful conversation starters should she get tongue-tied.

Tennis: Barty limps out of French Open as Nadal set for lonely 35th birthday

Serena Williams continues her latest bid for an elusive 24th Grand Slam singles crown on Wednesday at a French Open now without two of the world's top three ranked women's players.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-after-shock-french-open-withdrawal-osaka-reveals-bouts-of-depression-388742" hreflang="en">Tennis: After shock French Open withdrawal, Osaka reveals 'bouts of depression'</a>

The 39-year-old Williams has already seen two of her likeliest title challengers, who have both beaten her in major finals in recent years, either fail to start the tournament or pull out in unprecedented circumstances.

World number three Simona Halep, the 2018 Roland Garros champion who defeated Williams a year later in the Wimbledon final, withdrew before the event with injury.

The biggest story of the French Open so far has undoubtedly been world number two Naomi Osaka's shock withdrawal after a press boycott, saying she has been suffering with "bouts of depression" since her breakthrough victory over Williams in the controversial 2018 US Open showpiece match.

Serena, who has been one short of Margaret Court's all-time record of 24 Slams since winning the Australian Open four years ago, faces Romania's Mihaela Buzarnescu on Wednesday in the second round.

The American, seeded eighth, saved two set points in the first set of her opening win over Irina-Camelia Begu -- the first ever Roland Garros night match.

"I have to say it was pretty cool to be able to play the first night session ever here at Roland Garros. That was something I thoroughly enjoyed," said Williams, who is back on Chatrier but during the day session against Buzarnescu.

That means she will play in front of a crowd for the first time this week, as the night sessions are currently being played behind closed doors due to the French government-imposed 9pm curfew.

"I wasn't sure why there wasn't a crowd," said the three-time French Open champion.

"I guess it was because there's curfew at 9. It's definitely a little different. Ironically enough night sessions are not my favourite matches, but I do have a good record at it."

In the men's draw, second seed Daniil Medvedev will be hoping to back up his first-ever French Open win by going deep into the tournament.

The two-time Grand Slam runner-up is in the half of the draw without any major champions -- with Dominic Thiem dumped out at the first hurdle and Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer all in the opposite side.

The Russian, who had lost in the opening round on all four of his previous appearances, will face Tommy Paul of the United States for a place in round three in the evening match.

"My opponent can see I was really feeling good," said Medvedev after his straight-sets victory over Alexander Bublik.

"I actually played much better in practice still than today, so there is room for improvement."

Despite Medvedev's loftier ranking, Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas is probably the favourite to reach the final from the bottom half.

The 22-year-old lost an epic five-set semi-final in Paris last October to Djokovic and also made the last four of the Australian Open in February.

Tsitsipas has been in excellent form on clay this year, winning the Monte Carlo Masters, the ATP event in Lyon and reaching the Barcelona Open final, where he lost to Nadal despite holding a match point.

He will take on 103rd-ranked Spaniard Pedro Martinez in round two.

Elsewhere on Wednesday, German sixth seed Alexander Zverev faces Russia's Roman Safiullin, while promising youngsters Casper Ruud and Jannik Sinner play Kamil Majchrzak and Gianluca Mager respectively.

Serena Williams continues her latest bid for an elusive 24th Grand Slam singles crown on Wednesday at a French Open now without two of the world's top three ranked women's players.

Serena Williams continues her latest bid for an elusive 24th Grand Slam singles crown on Wednesday at a French Open now without two of the world's top three ranked women's players. ALSO READ: Tennis: After shock French Open withdrawal, Osaka reveals 'bouts of depression' The 39-year-old Williams has already seen two of her likeliest title challengers, who have both beaten her in major finals in recent years, either fail to start the tournament or pull out in unprecedented circumstances. World number three Simona Halep, the 2018 Roland Garros champion who defeated Williams a year later in the Wimbledon final, withdrew before the event with injury. The biggest story of the French Open so far has undoubtedly been world number two Naomi Osaka's shock withdrawal after a press boycott, saying she has been suffering with "bouts of depression" since her breakthrough victory over Williams in the controversial 2018 US Open showpiece match. Serena, who has been one short of Margaret Court's all-time record of 24 Slams since winning the Australian Open four years ago, faces Romania's Mihaela Buzarnescu on Wednesday in the second round. The American, seeded eighth, saved two set points in the first set of her opening win over Irina-Camelia Begu -- the first ever Roland Garros night match. "I have to say it was pretty cool to be able to play the first night session ever here at Roland Garros. That was something I thoroughly enjoyed," said Williams, who is back on Chatrier but during the day session against Buzarnescu. That means she will play in front of a crowd for the first time this week, as the night sessions are currently being played behind closed doors due to the French government-imposed 9pm curfew. "I wasn't sure why there wasn't a crowd," said the three-time French Open champion. "I guess it was because there's curfew at 9. It's definitely a little different. Ironically enough night sessions are not my favourite matches, but I do have a good record at it." In the men's draw, second seed Daniil Medvedev will be hoping to back up his first-ever French Open win by going deep into the tournament. The two-time Grand Slam runner-up is in the half of the draw without any major champions -- with Dominic Thiem dumped out at the first hurdle and Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer all in the opposite side. The Russian, who had lost in the opening round on all four of his previous appearances, will face Tommy Paul of the United States for a place in round three in the evening match. "My opponent can see I was really feeling good," said Medvedev after his straight-sets victory over Alexander Bublik. "I actually played much better in practice still than today, so there is room for improvement." Despite Medvedev's loftier ranking, Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas is probably the favourite to reach the final from the bottom half. The 22-year-old lost an epic five-set semi-final in Paris last October to Djokovic and also made the last four of the Australian Open in February. Tsitsipas has been in excellent form on clay this year, winning the Monte Carlo Masters, the ATP event in Lyon and reaching the Barcelona Open final, where he lost to Nadal despite holding a match point. He will take on 103rd-ranked Spaniard Pedro Martinez in round two. Elsewhere on Wednesday, German sixth seed Alexander Zverev faces Russia's Roman Safiullin, while promising youngsters Casper Ruud and Jannik Sinner play Kamil Majchrzak and Gianluca Mager respectively.

Tennis: Serena Williams looks to take advantage of open draw at Roland Garros

World number one Novak Djokovic on Tuesday hailed Naomi Osaka as "brave and bold" for withdrawing from the French Open after revealing her struggles with depression and anxiety.

"I support her. I think she was very brave to do that. I'm really sorry that she is going through painful times and suffering mentally, is what I have heard," said Djokovic after reaching the second round of the tournament.

"This was, I must say, a very bold decision from her side.&nbsp;

"If she needs to take time and reflect and just recharge that's what she needed to do, and I respect it fully. I hope that she'll come back stronger."

World number two and four-time major winner Osaka pulled out on Monday after she was fined $15,000 and threatened with disqualification for refusing to attend press conferences.

Osaka claimed traditional post-match media conferences are akin to "kicking people when they're down" and were having a detrimental effect on her mental health.

She revealed she had been suffering bouts of depression since her 2018 US Open title breakthrough as well as anxiety attacks.

"There's a sense of voyeurism around how it presently works," wrote Peter Terry, a professor of psychology at the University of Southern Queensland in Australia on theconversation.com.

"Osaka is a young, introverted, anxious person. We should by now understand that sports stars are not super human, that they have the same doubts and mental health issues as everyone else."

Djokovic kicked off his campaign for a 19th Grand Slam title with a 6-2, 6-4, 6-2 win over Tennys Sandgren inside an empty stadium.

Rafael Nadal, the 13-time champion and chasing a record-setting 21st major, defeated Alexei Popyrin of Australia 6-3, 6-2, 7-6 (7/3).

The Spaniard now has 101 wins against just two losses at the tournament.

Djokovic saw off world number 66 Sandgren in straight sets for his fourth win in four meetings with the American.

However, a French government Covid-19 curfew of 9pm meant that his evening session match at the 15,000-capacity Court Philippe Chatrier was played out to rows of empty seats.

"It was strange, honestly, but I'm also honoured to be the first men's match, night session, in the history of this tournament," said Djokovic.

Top seed Djokovic, the champion in Paris in 2016, is attempting to become the first man in more than 50 years to win all four Slams multiple times.

The Serb fired 33 winners and broke serve five times as he set up a clash with Pablo Cuevas of Uruguay for a place in the last 32.

Nadal has now won 26 sets in a row at the tournament.

<h2>- 'Lucky to win' -</h2>

"I was lucky to win that third set, I don't know how (I did). The beginning of the match had been very tough too," said Nadal, who was 2-5 down in the third set, saving two set points.

Up next is fellow 34-year-old Richard Gasquet.

The pair first played one another when they were children.&nbsp;As professionals, Nadal leads 16-0.

Djokovic and Nadal are seeded to meet in the semi-finals.

One dangerman for Nadal and Djokovic was removed from the draw when seventh seed Andrey Rublev lost 6-3, 7-6 (8/6), 4-6, 3-6, 6-4 to Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff.

In-form Russian Rublev had defeated Nadal en route to the Monte Carlo Masters final.

Rublev joins fourth seed and two-time runner-up Dominic Thiem in falling at the first hurdle.

<h2>- Barty not 100% -</h2>

World number one Ashleigh Barty marked her return to Paris for the first time since her 2019 title triumph by beating American left-hander Bernarda Pera 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 but admitted she was fighting a hip problem.

"I'm not going to hide behind the fact I'm not quite 100%," said the 25-year-old.

Italian 37-year-old Andreas Seppi, playing in his 63rd successive Grand Slam, stunned 20th seeded Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-3, 7-6 (10/8), 4-6, 6-4.

Venus Williams, playing the tournament for the 24th time and a runner-up 19 years ago, saw her 89th Grand Slam end as Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova eased to a 6-3, 6-1 win.

Carla Suarez Navarro came close to winning her first match back after recovering from cancer, but bowed out 3-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 at the hands of Sloane Stephens.

Tuesday was a miserable day for home hopes as only three of 18 French men made the second round, the country's worst performance since the dawn of the Open era in 1968.

Ironically, a Roland Garros press conference led to the injury-enforced withdrawal of two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova who pulled out after hurting her ankle after finishing her media commitments.

World number one Novak Djokovic on Tuesday hailed Naomi Osaka as "brave and bold" for withdrawing from the French Open after revealing her struggles with depression and anxiety.

World number one Novak Djokovic on Tuesday hailed Naomi Osaka as "brave and bold" for withdrawing from the French Open after revealing her struggles with depression and anxiety. "I support her. I think she was very brave to do that. I'm really sorry that she is going through painful times and suffering mentally, is what I have heard," said Djokovic after reaching the second round of the tournament. "This was, I must say, a very bold decision from her side. "If she needs to take time and reflect and just recharge that's what she needed to do, and I respect it fully. I hope that she'll come back stronger." World number two and four-time major winner Osaka pulled out on Monday after she was fined $15,000 and threatened with disqualification for refusing to attend press conferences. Osaka claimed traditional post-match media conferences are akin to "kicking people when they're down" and were having a detrimental effect on her mental health. She revealed she had been suffering bouts of depression since her 2018 US Open title breakthrough as well as anxiety attacks. "There's a sense of voyeurism around how it presently works," wrote Peter Terry, a professor of psychology at the University of Southern Queensland in Australia on theconversation.com. "Osaka is a young, introverted, anxious person. We should by now understand that sports stars are not super human, that they have the same doubts and mental health issues as everyone else." Djokovic kicked off his campaign for a 19th Grand Slam title with a 6-2, 6-4, 6-2 win over Tennys Sandgren inside an empty stadium. Rafael Nadal, the 13-time champion and chasing a record-setting 21st major, defeated Alexei Popyrin of Australia 6-3, 6-2, 7-6 (7/3). The Spaniard now has 101 wins against just two losses at the tournament. Djokovic saw off world number 66 Sandgren in straight sets for his fourth win in four meetings with the American. However, a French government Covid-19 curfew of 9pm meant that his evening session match at the 15,000-capacity Court Philippe Chatrier was played out to rows of empty seats. "It was strange, honestly, but I'm also honoured to be the first men's match, night session, in the history of this tournament," said Djokovic. Top seed Djokovic, the champion in Paris in 2016, is attempting to become the first man in more than 50 years to win all four Slams multiple times. The Serb fired 33 winners and broke serve five times as he set up a clash with Pablo Cuevas of Uruguay for a place in the last 32. Nadal has now won 26 sets in a row at the tournament. - 'Lucky to win' - "I was lucky to win that third set, I don't know how (I did). The beginning of the match had been very tough too," said Nadal, who was 2-5 down in the third set, saving two set points. Up next is fellow 34-year-old Richard Gasquet. The pair first played one another when they were children. As professionals, Nadal leads 16-0. Djokovic and Nadal are seeded to meet in the semi-finals. One dangerman for Nadal and Djokovic was removed from the draw when seventh seed Andrey Rublev lost 6-3, 7-6 (8/6), 4-6, 3-6, 6-4 to Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff. In-form Russian Rublev had defeated Nadal en route to the Monte Carlo Masters final. Rublev joins fourth seed and two-time runner-up Dominic Thiem in falling at the first hurdle. - Barty not 100% - World number one Ashleigh Barty marked her return to Paris for the first time since her 2019 title triumph by beating American left-hander Bernarda Pera 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 but admitted she was fighting a hip problem. "I'm not going to hide behind the fact I'm not quite 100%," said the 25-year-old. Italian 37-year-old Andreas Seppi, playing in his 63rd successive Grand Slam, stunned 20th seeded Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-3, 7-6 (10/8), 4-6, 6-4. Venus Williams, playing the tournament for the 24th time and a runner-up 19 years ago, saw her 89th Grand Slam end as Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova eased to a 6-3, 6-1 win. Carla Suarez Navarro came close to winning her first match back after recovering from cancer, but bowed out 3-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 at the hands of Sloane Stephens. Tuesday was a miserable day for home hopes as only three of 18 French men made the second round, the country's worst performance since the dawn of the Open era in 1968. Ironically, a Roland Garros press conference led to the injury-enforced withdrawal of two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova who pulled out after hurting her ankle after finishing her media commitments.

Tennis: Djokovic hails 'bold, brave' Osaka as Nadal, Barty cruise at French Open

Naomi Osaka withdrew from the French Open on Monday following the bitter fall-out from her decision to boycott all media activity, revealing she has "suffered long bouts of depression" and will now "take some time away from the court".

"The best thing for the tournament, the other players and my well-being is that I withdraw so that everyone can get back to focusing on the tennis going on in Paris," the world number two wrote on Twitter.

The 23-year-old Japanese star was fined $15,000 on Sunday and threatened with disqualification after she refused to carry out a mandatory news conference following her first round win.

She claimed on the eve of Roland Garros that such post-match inquests were akin to "kicking people when they are down" and that they had a detrimental effect on her mental health.

"I never wanted to be a distraction and I accept that my timing was not ideal and my message could have been clearer," the four-time Grand Slam title winner said in her statement.

"The truth is I have suffered bouts of depression since the US Open in 2018 (when she beat Serena Williams for her first Slam title) and I have had a really hard time coping with that."

She added: "In Paris, I was already feeling vulnerable and anxious so I thought it was better to exercise self-care and skip the press conferences.

"I announced it preemptively because I do feel like the rules are quite out-dated in parts and I wanted to highlight that.

"I am going to take some time away from the court now."

Osaka said she has apologised to organisers over the affair which has dominated the early stages of the French Open ever since she warned last week that she would not carry out any media activity.

Serena Williams said she sympathised with Osaka.

"I feel for her, I wish could give her a hug," said the 23-time major winner after making the second round.

"We all have different personalities. I am thick, others are thin. It's best to let her handle it the way she wants to."

Martina Navratilova said she fully supported Osaka's decision.

"I truly hope she will be ok. As athletes we are taught to take care of our body, and perhaps the mental &amp; emotional aspect gets short shrift," tweeted Navratilova.

"This is about more than doing or not doing a press conference. Good luck Naomi - we are all pulling for you!"

French Tennis Federation president Gilles Moretton had described her vow of silence as "a phenomenal error".

On Monday, he said: "We are sorry and sad for Naomi Osaka. The outcome of Naomi withdrawing from Roland Garros is unfortunate."

"We wish her the best and the quickest possible recovery," Moretton added as he read out a prepared statement without taking questions.

"We look forward to having Naomi in our tournament next year."

<h2>- Highest earning female athlete -</h2>

Osaka is the world's highest earning female athlete, making $37.4 million in 2020.

She burst onto the scene in 2018 with a maiden Slam win at the US Open.&nbsp;

She has gone on to win another title in New York as well as two Australian Opens.

Earlier Monday, Osaka's coach said she wanted to use her superstar status to force change in the sport.

"Naomi has the opportunity to use her status to address problems and to initiate things," Osaka's Belgian coach Wim Fissette told German magazine Der Spiegel.

"In the United States, the subject is very topical at the moment, as athletes want more freedom in dealing with the press.

"So that they are simply not threatened right away with punishment if they don't feel well for a day."

Mari Osaka, a former player herself, said her sister had been struggling to cope in the run-up to Paris.

"Naomi mentioned to me before the tournament that a family member had come up to her and remarked that she's bad on clay," Mari wrote on Reddit.

"At every press conference she's told she has a bad record on clay.

<h2>- 'Not OK mentally' -</h2>

"When she lost in Rome, she was not OK mentally. She was completely shattered and I think everyone's remarks and opinions have gotten to her head."

Teenage American player Coco Gauff tweeted her support for Osaka.

"Stay strong. I admire your vulnerability."&nbsp;

Former world number one and two-time major winner Victoria Azarenka said: "The challenge today is to convince people of the value of truth, honesty, compassion and a concern for others."

Naomi Osaka withdrew from the French Open on Monday following the bitter fall-out from her decision to boycott all media activity, revealing she has "suffered long bouts of depression" and will now "take some time away from the court".

Naomi Osaka withdrew from the French Open on Monday following the bitter fall-out from her decision to boycott all media activity, revealing she has "suffered long bouts of depression" and will now "take some time away from the court". "The best thing for the tournament, the other players and my well-being is that I withdraw so that everyone can get back to focusing on the tennis going on in Paris," the world number two wrote on Twitter. The 23-year-old Japanese star was fined $15,000 on Sunday and threatened with disqualification after she refused to carry out a mandatory news conference following her first round win. She claimed on the eve of Roland Garros that such post-match inquests were akin to "kicking people when they are down" and that they had a detrimental effect on her mental health. "I never wanted to be a distraction and I accept that my timing was not ideal and my message could have been clearer," the four-time Grand Slam title winner said in her statement. "The truth is I have suffered bouts of depression since the US Open in 2018 (when she beat Serena Williams for her first Slam title) and I have had a really hard time coping with that." She added: "In Paris, I was already feeling vulnerable and anxious so I thought it was better to exercise self-care and skip the press conferences. "I announced it preemptively because I do feel like the rules are quite out-dated in parts and I wanted to highlight that. "I am going to take some time away from the court now." Osaka said she has apologised to organisers over the affair which has dominated the early stages of the French Open ever since she warned last week that she would not carry out any media activity. Serena Williams said she sympathised with Osaka. "I feel for her, I wish could give her a hug," said the 23-time major winner after making the second round. "We all have different personalities. I am thick, others are thin. It's best to let her handle it the way she wants to." Martina Navratilova said she fully supported Osaka's decision. "I truly hope she will be ok. As athletes we are taught to take care of our body, and perhaps the mental & emotional aspect gets short shrift," tweeted Navratilova. "This is about more than doing or not doing a press conference. Good luck Naomi - we are all pulling for you!" French Tennis Federation president Gilles Moretton had described her vow of silence as "a phenomenal error". On Monday, he said: "We are sorry and sad for Naomi Osaka. The outcome of Naomi withdrawing from Roland Garros is unfortunate." "We wish her the best and the quickest possible recovery," Moretton added as he read out a prepared statement without taking questions. "We look forward to having Naomi in our tournament next year." - Highest earning female athlete - Osaka is the world's highest earning female athlete, making $37.4 million in 2020. She burst onto the scene in 2018 with a maiden Slam win at the US Open. She has gone on to win another title in New York as well as two Australian Opens. Earlier Monday, Osaka's coach said she wanted to use her superstar status to force change in the sport. "Naomi has the opportunity to use her status to address problems and to initiate things," Osaka's Belgian coach Wim Fissette told German magazine Der Spiegel. "In the United States, the subject is very topical at the moment, as athletes want more freedom in dealing with the press. "So that they are simply not threatened right away with punishment if they don't feel well for a day." Mari Osaka, a former player herself, said her sister had been struggling to cope in the run-up to Paris. "Naomi mentioned to me before the tournament that a family member had come up to her and remarked that she's bad on clay," Mari wrote on Reddit. "At every press conference she's told she has a bad record on clay. - 'Not OK mentally' - "When she lost in Rome, she was not OK mentally. She was completely shattered and I think everyone's remarks and opinions have gotten to her head." Teenage American player Coco Gauff tweeted her support for Osaka. "Stay strong. I admire your vulnerability." Former world number one and two-time major winner Victoria Azarenka said: "The challenge today is to convince people of the value of truth, honesty, compassion and a concern for others."

Tennis: After shock French Open withdrawal, Osaka reveals 'bouts of depression'

Two-time runner-up Dominic Thiem was knocked out in the first round of the French Open by Spanish journeyman Pablo Andujar 4-6 5-7 6-3 6-4 6-4 in the first major upset of the claycourt Grand Slam on Sunday.

It first seemed that Andujar's win against 20-time Grand Slam winner Roger Federer in Geneva earlier this month would count for nothing. But Austrian Thiem's game began to unravel after a dominant start on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Thiem, who reached the final in Paris in 2018 and 2019, had never lost in the opening round at Roland Garros, but that prospect grew as Andujar went for his shots and unsettled his 27-year-old opponent.

Thiem broke back after conceding a break in the first game of the decider, but Andujar kept on piling up the pressure with deep strokes and broke again for 3-2.

The 35-year-old ranked 68th in the world then held serve throughout to claim victory after nearly four-and-a-half hours after Thiem made a total of 66 unforced errors.

Thiem, who took a break to 'reset his game' earlier this season and also battled injuries, entered the tournament short of confidence and Sunday's clash with Andujar showed he had yet to rediscover his touch even though he had reached the semi-finals at the Madrid Masters this month.

"I was not struggling at all with my motivation but the game was just not there today," he said.

"Like all the shots are missing power. They are not accurate enough. I'm moving not well enough, so everything in my game there are some percents missing."

Andujar, on the other hand, was on a roll after beating Federer on the Geneva clay.

"I believed in myself because I played well against Federer&nbsp;two weeks ago. Usually being drawn against Thiem is a bad draw," the Spaniard said.

"Winning today against a player like him is like a gift, even if he has not been at his best recently, because I'm 35 and I don't know how long I'm going to be playing for.

"Beating Roger was an even bigger gift. I feel like Father Christmas came to my home."

Two-time runner-up Dominic Thiem was knocked out in the first round of the French Open by Spanish journeyman Pablo Andujar 4-6 5-7 6-3 6-4 6-4 in the first major upset of the claycourt Grand Slam on Sunday.

Two-time runner-up Dominic Thiem was knocked out in the first round of the French Open by Spanish journeyman Pablo Andujar 4-6 5-7 6-3 6-4 6-4 in the first major upset of the claycourt Grand Slam on Sunday. It first seemed that Andujar's win against 20-time Grand Slam winner Roger Federer in Geneva earlier this month would count for nothing. But Austrian Thiem's game began to unravel after a dominant start on Court Philippe Chatrier. Thiem, who reached the final in Paris in 2018 and 2019, had never lost in the opening round at Roland Garros, but that prospect grew as Andujar went for his shots and unsettled his 27-year-old opponent. Thiem broke back after conceding a break in the first game of the decider, but Andujar kept on piling up the pressure with deep strokes and broke again for 3-2. The 35-year-old ranked 68th in the world then held serve throughout to claim victory after nearly four-and-a-half hours after Thiem made a total of 66 unforced errors. Thiem, who took a break to 'reset his game' earlier this season and also battled injuries, entered the tournament short of confidence and Sunday's clash with Andujar showed he had yet to rediscover his touch even though he had reached the semi-finals at the Madrid Masters this month. "I was not struggling at all with my motivation but the game was just not there today," he said. "Like all the shots are missing power. They are not accurate enough. I'm moving not well enough, so everything in my game there are some percents missing." Andujar, on the other hand, was on a roll after beating Federer on the Geneva clay. "I believed in myself because I played well against Federer two weeks ago. Usually being drawn against Thiem is a bad draw," the Spaniard said. "Winning today against a player like him is like a gift, even if he has not been at his best recently, because I'm 35 and I don't know how long I'm going to be playing for. "Beating Roger was an even bigger gift. I feel like Father Christmas came to my home."

Tennis: Dominic Thiem knocked out by Pablo Andujar in French Open first round

The coach of Naomi Osaka says she is using her superstar status to force change with her controversial media boycott at the French Open.

"Naomi has the opportunity to use her status to address problems and to initiate things," Osaka's Belgian coach Wim Fissette told German magazine Der Spiegel.

"In the United States, the subject is very topical at the moment, as athletes want more freedom in dealing with the press.

"So that they are simply not threatened right away with punishment if they don't feel well for a day."&nbsp;

On Sunday, officials at Roland Garros threatened Osaka, the world number two, with disqualification if she persists in boycotting media press conferences, which she claims are detrimental to her mental health.&nbsp;

The 23-year-old was fined $15,000 for refusing to attend a press conference after her opening 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) victory over Romanian world number 63 Patricia Maria Tig.

Following her win, Osaka agreed only to a cursory on-court TV interview.

Osaka has likened traditional post-match press conferences to&nbsp;"kicking people when they're down", but French Tennis Federation president Gilles Moretton has described her vow of silence as "a phenomenal error".

However, following her win over Tig, Osaka stood firm by tweeting: "Anger is a lack of understanding. Change makes people uncomfortable."

In the Spiegel interview, Fissette also insisted Osaka "knows it's important to talk to the press" and is not boycotting the media "for herself alone", but is "concerned with fundamental issues -- she wants to bring about change".

Earlier this year, the Japanese superstar won the fourth Grand Slam title of her career at the Australian Open, but has never got past the third round of the French Open.&nbsp;

The coach of Naomi Osaka says she is using her superstar status to force change with her controversial media boycott at the French Open. "Naomi has the opportunity to use her status to address problems and to initiate things," Osaka's Belgian coach Wim Fissette told German magazine Der Spiegel.

The coach of Naomi Osaka says she is using her superstar status to force change with her controversial media boycott at the French Open. "Naomi has the opportunity to use her status to address problems and to initiate things," Osaka's Belgian coach Wim Fissette told German magazine Der Spiegel. "In the United States, the subject is very topical at the moment, as athletes want more freedom in dealing with the press. "So that they are simply not threatened right away with punishment if they don't feel well for a day." On Sunday, officials at Roland Garros threatened Osaka, the world number two, with disqualification if she persists in boycotting media press conferences, which she claims are detrimental to her mental health. The 23-year-old was fined $15,000 for refusing to attend a press conference after her opening 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) victory over Romanian world number 63 Patricia Maria Tig. Following her win, Osaka agreed only to a cursory on-court TV interview. Osaka has likened traditional post-match press conferences to "kicking people when they're down", but French Tennis Federation president Gilles Moretton has described her vow of silence as "a phenomenal error". However, following her win over Tig, Osaka stood firm by tweeting: "Anger is a lack of understanding. Change makes people uncomfortable." In the Spiegel interview, Fissette also insisted Osaka "knows it's important to talk to the press" and is not boycotting the media "for herself alone", but is "concerned with fundamental issues -- she wants to bring about change". Earlier this year, the Japanese superstar won the fourth Grand Slam title of her career at the Australian Open, but has never got past the third round of the French Open.

Tennis: Osaka wants to use French Open media boycott 'to bring about change', says coach

Novak Djokovic enjoyed success at his own&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;center when he won the Belgrade Open with a 6-4 6-3 win over Slovakian Alex Molcan in Saturday's final but his performance left a lot to be desired ahead of the French Open.

World number one Djokovic received a standing ovation from the home crowd by the Danube river in the Serbian capital after an erratic display against world number 255 Molcan, who battled through from the qualifying rounds.

It was Djokovic's first triumph since he clinched his 18th major at the Australian Open in February.

Since then, he has endured patchy claycourt season, including a last 16 exit at the Monte Carlo Masters.

Djokovic also lost to Russian Aslan Karatsev in the Serbia Open semi-finals before being defeated by Rafael Nadal in the Rome Masters final and his display against Molcan was at times unconvincing.

But Djokovic struck a happy figure as he lifted the trophy.

"I want to thank everyone who turned up and made this a memorable day, I have to admit that part of my mind is already in Paris," Djokovic said in a courtside interview.

"It was an easy decision to enter this tournament, I never had any second thoughts and I am delighted that we came through so magnificently with this event.

"I am aiming for the title at Roland Garros."

Novak Djokovic enjoyed success at his own tennis center when he won the Belgrade Open with a 6-4 6-3 win over Slovakian Alex Molcan in Saturday's final but his performance left a lot to be desired ahead of the French Open.

Novak Djokovic enjoyed success at his own tennis center when he won the Belgrade Open with a 6-4 6-3 win over Slovakian Alex Molcan in Saturday's final but his performance left a lot to be desired ahead of the French Open. World number one Djokovic received a standing ovation from the home crowd by the Danube river in the Serbian capital after an erratic display against world number 255 Molcan, who battled through from the qualifying rounds. It was Djokovic's first triumph since he clinched his 18th major at the Australian Open in February. Since then, he has endured patchy claycourt season, including a last 16 exit at the Monte Carlo Masters. Djokovic also lost to Russian Aslan Karatsev in the Serbia Open semi-finals before being defeated by Rafael Nadal in the Rome Masters final and his display against Molcan was at times unconvincing. But Djokovic struck a happy figure as he lifted the trophy. "I want to thank everyone who turned up and made this a memorable day, I have to admit that part of my mind is already in Paris," Djokovic said in a courtside interview. "It was an easy decision to enter this tournament, I never had any second thoughts and I am delighted that we came through so magnificently with this event. "I am aiming for the title at Roland Garros."

Tennis: Novak Djokovic wins on home soil ahead of French Open

Japanese star Naomi Osaka was Sunday threatened with disqualification from the French Open if she continues her media boycott, officials said.

"We have advised Naomi Osaka that should she continue to ignore her media obligations during the tournament, she would be exposing herself to possible further Code of Conduct infringement consequences," said a statement from the four Grand Slam tournaments.

"As might be expected, repeat violations attract tougher sanctions including default from the tournament."

World number two Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam title winner and sport's highest-earning female athlete, was fined $15,000 on Sunday for refusing to hold a press conference after her opening win against Patricia Maria Tig.

Japanese star Naomi Osaka was Sunday threatened with disqualification from the French Open if she continues her media boycott, officials said. "We have advised Naomi Osaka that should she continue to ignore her media obligations during the tournament, she would be exposing herself to possible further Code of Conduct infringement consequences," said a statement from the four Grand Slam tournaments.

Japanese star Naomi Osaka was Sunday threatened with disqualification from the French Open if she continues her media boycott, officials said. "We have advised Naomi Osaka that should she continue to ignore her media obligations during the tournament, she would be exposing herself to possible further Code of Conduct infringement consequences," said a statement from the four Grand Slam tournaments. "As might be expected, repeat violations attract tougher sanctions including default from the tournament." World number two Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam title winner and sport's highest-earning female athlete, was fined $15,000 on Sunday for refusing to hold a press conference after her opening win against Patricia Maria Tig.

Tennis: Osaka faces French Open default if she continues media boycott

Naomi Osaka's decision to shun the media at the French Open has rocked the&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;landscape and all eyes will be on the world number two when she takes on Romanian Patricia Maria Tig in her first match on Court Philippe-Chatrier on Sunday.

Osaka's announcement that she would boycott her press conferences to protect her mental health has sparked heated debate, with the 23-year-old Japanese player drawing support and condemnation from various quarters.

Osaka missed last year's French Open with a hamstring injury and her preparation has been far from ideal this year, with only three matches under her belt on clay after early defeats in Madrid and Rome.

She has never progressed beyond the third round in Paris and said in Rome that she was still coming to grips with her least-favorite surface.

"In a weird way, I'm kind of glad I'm not winning," Osaka had said. "I know that sounds a bit off, but I feel like I'm learning a lot."

Men's fourth seed Dominic Thiem, who stitched together a run to the semi-finals in Madrid before falling early in Rome and Lyon, is also in action against Spaniard Pablo Andujar.

Twice a finalist at Roland Garros, the Austrian will not meet one of the 'Big Three' - Rafa Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Roger Federer - until the quarter-finals, being in the other half of the draw, but is more worried about his own form.

"I think the way I'm coming into the tournament, the way I also played the last weeks, the only thing I can focus on is the first rounds," Thiem said. "I shouldn't focus at all on who is in my quarter or even who is in my half."

Greece's Monte Carlo Masters and Lyon champion Stefanos Tsitsipas, who is seeded fifth, and Germany's Madrid Masters winner Alexander Zverev, the sixth seed, are also in action, against Jeremy Chardy and qualifier Oscar Otte, respectively.

Third seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, who beat Australian world number one Ash Barty in the Madrid showpiece, faces Croatian qualifier Ana Konjuh, who reached the final in Belgrade last week but retired with a hip injury.

Naomi Osaka's decision to shun the media at the French Open has rocked the tennis landscape and all eyes will be on the world number two when she takes on Romanian Patricia Maria Tig in her first match on Court Philippe-Chatrier on Sunday.

Naomi Osaka's decision to shun the media at the French Open has rocked the tennis landscape and all eyes will be on the world number two when she takes on Romanian Patricia Maria Tig in her first match on Court Philippe-Chatrier on Sunday. Osaka's announcement that she would boycott her press conferences to protect her mental health has sparked heated debate, with the 23-year-old Japanese player drawing support and condemnation from various quarters. Osaka missed last year's French Open with a hamstring injury and her preparation has been far from ideal this year, with only three matches under her belt on clay after early defeats in Madrid and Rome. She has never progressed beyond the third round in Paris and said in Rome that she was still coming to grips with her least-favorite surface. "In a weird way, I'm kind of glad I'm not winning," Osaka had said. "I know that sounds a bit off, but I feel like I'm learning a lot." Men's fourth seed Dominic Thiem, who stitched together a run to the semi-finals in Madrid before falling early in Rome and Lyon, is also in action against Spaniard Pablo Andujar. Twice a finalist at Roland Garros, the Austrian will not meet one of the 'Big Three' - Rafa Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Roger Federer - until the quarter-finals, being in the other half of the draw, but is more worried about his own form. "I think the way I'm coming into the tournament, the way I also played the last weeks, the only thing I can focus on is the first rounds," Thiem said. "I shouldn't focus at all on who is in my quarter or even who is in my half." Greece's Monte Carlo Masters and Lyon champion Stefanos Tsitsipas, who is seeded fifth, and Germany's Madrid Masters winner Alexander Zverev, the sixth seed, are also in action, against Jeremy Chardy and qualifier Oscar Otte, respectively. Third seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, who beat Australian world number one Ash Barty in the Madrid showpiece, faces Croatian qualifier Ana Konjuh, who reached the final in Belgrade last week but retired with a hip injury.

Tennis: Naomi Osaka takes centre stage as French Open gets underway

World number two Daniil Medvedev has never won a match at the French Open, yet the Russian is feeling confident ahead of the claycourt Grand Slam, which starts on Sunday. 
 
Medvedev lost all his four first-round matches at Roland Garros since his debut in 2017 and has only one win to his name on clay this season. 
 
"I have to say coming here was my first practice yesterday, I was playing amazing so far," Medvedev, who will start his campaign against Kazakhstan`s Alexander Bublik, told a news conference on Friday. 
 
"I feel like, I don`t know if maybe the balls change or it`s the conditions, because last year we had these Wilson balls which are supposed to suit me, but it was like five degrees when I played my match so I had almost no chance to do anything against a great player like (Marton) Fucsovics." 
 
The 25-year-old Medvedev, who has played Grand Slam finals at the Australian and U.S. Opens, is certainly expecting to go through to the second round at Roland Garros. 
 
"So far I have been playing amazing. I could play -- I mean, I didn`t feel that it was clay. I was playing like on hard courts, and hopefully, I mean, have some expectations," he said. 
 
"Most important is to play good, have a player that also doesn`t like clay, but again, he will like the conditions here. I really like the conditions here so far, and looking forward to make a great tournament, to be honest."

World number two Daniil Medvedev has never won a match at the French Open, yet the Russian is feeling confident ahead of the claycourt Grand Slam, which starts on Sunday.

World number two Daniil Medvedev has never won a match at the French Open, yet the Russian is feeling confident ahead of the claycourt Grand Slam, which starts on Sunday. Medvedev lost all his four first-round matches at Roland Garros since his debut in 2017 and has only one win to his name on clay this season. "I have to say coming here was my first practice yesterday, I was playing amazing so far," Medvedev, who will start his campaign against Kazakhstan`s Alexander Bublik, told a news conference on Friday. "I feel like, I don`t know if maybe the balls change or it`s the conditions, because last year we had these Wilson balls which are supposed to suit me, but it was like five degrees when I played my match so I had almost no chance to do anything against a great player like (Marton) Fucsovics." The 25-year-old Medvedev, who has played Grand Slam finals at the Australian and U.S. Opens, is certainly expecting to go through to the second round at Roland Garros. "So far I have been playing amazing. I could play -- I mean, I didn`t feel that it was clay. I was playing like on hard courts, and hopefully, I mean, have some expectations," he said. "Most important is to play good, have a player that also doesn`t like clay, but again, he will like the conditions here. I really like the conditions here so far, and looking forward to make a great tournament, to be honest."

Tennis: Serial French Open loser Medvedev looking to finally clear first hurdle

French Open champion Iga Swiatek warned she would not be satisfied with just one Grand Slam as she heads for Paris after claiming her first WTA 1000 trophy in style in Rome on Sunday.

The 19-year-old demolished world number nine Karolina Pliskova 6-0, 6-0 in just 45 minutes on the red clay of the Foro Italico.

"I'm surprising myself actually when I'm not doing well because I'm pretty ambitious," said the player from Warsaw, who was unknown a year ago, before winning her first career title in Paris.

"There are many players that regress after winning their first Grand Slam.&nbsp;

"I always though try to be different. I'm a perfectionist."

Swiatek has now won three titles, following on from Roland Garros with Adelaide in January, and now Rome, and will move into the top 10 for the first time on Monday.

She showed no fatigue after back-to-back matches on Saturday, when she defeated two-time Rome winner Elina Svitolina and American teenager Coco Gauff and nearly three-and-a-half hours on court.

"Day after day I was feeling a little bit better," explained Swiatek, who had saved match points in the third round against Barbora Krejcikova.&nbsp;

"Playing yesterday (Saturday) two matches actually gave me more than it would usually, because I would get tired, but this time I was in a rhythm and I could feel that. So it gave me a lot of confidence."

Swiatek travels with a team including a psychologist which she says has helped improve her game.

"I had good people around me, telling me not to really worry, and that sometimes it's the best idea not to care.&nbsp;

"Everybody can play great forehands and backhands and be physically well, but the champion is going to be the one that is stronger mentally.

"I think mentally I was really in good shape today."

She swept through the first set in just 20 minutes, allowing Pliskova four points, dropping just 13 in total throughout the match.

Pliskova tried to fight back in the third game of the second set, holding double break points, but the Polish player ruthlessly snuffed out any return.

"From the beginning I felt that she may be a little bit nervous, and I wanted to use that and actually play as many games with that vibe as I can," said Swiatek.&nbsp;

"But it's not easy to win the first set 6-0, because you always have in the back of the mind that your opponent may start playing better and they can change the tactics completely, and then you have to adjust and then you're going to start worrying."

She was so focused she had not realised her opponent had not won a game.

"When I was playing I didn't even know what was the score," admitted the 15th seed.

"When my coach told me it was 6-0, 6-0, I was, like, Really? Isn't that a mistake?"&nbsp;

"I will just quickly forget about today," said Pliskova, the former world number one, who was playing in her third consecutive Rome final.

"She was having maybe a moment of her life

"But you can see her results on clay, they are great. It's not just like, you know, luck."

French Open champion Iga Swiatek warned she would not be satisfied with just one Grand Slam as she heads for Paris after claiming her first WTA 1000 trophy in style in Rome on Sunday.

French Open champion Iga Swiatek warned she would not be satisfied with just one Grand Slam as she heads for Paris after claiming her first WTA 1000 trophy in style in Rome on Sunday. The 19-year-old demolished world number nine Karolina Pliskova 6-0, 6-0 in just 45 minutes on the red clay of the Foro Italico. "I'm surprising myself actually when I'm not doing well because I'm pretty ambitious," said the player from Warsaw, who was unknown a year ago, before winning her first career title in Paris. "There are many players that regress after winning their first Grand Slam. "I always though try to be different. I'm a perfectionist." Swiatek has now won three titles, following on from Roland Garros with Adelaide in January, and now Rome, and will move into the top 10 for the first time on Monday. She showed no fatigue after back-to-back matches on Saturday, when she defeated two-time Rome winner Elina Svitolina and American teenager Coco Gauff and nearly three-and-a-half hours on court. "Day after day I was feeling a little bit better," explained Swiatek, who had saved match points in the third round against Barbora Krejcikova. "Playing yesterday (Saturday) two matches actually gave me more than it would usually, because I would get tired, but this time I was in a rhythm and I could feel that. So it gave me a lot of confidence." Swiatek travels with a team including a psychologist which she says has helped improve her game. "I had good people around me, telling me not to really worry, and that sometimes it's the best idea not to care. "Everybody can play great forehands and backhands and be physically well, but the champion is going to be the one that is stronger mentally. "I think mentally I was really in good shape today." She swept through the first set in just 20 minutes, allowing Pliskova four points, dropping just 13 in total throughout the match. Pliskova tried to fight back in the third game of the second set, holding double break points, but the Polish player ruthlessly snuffed out any return. "From the beginning I felt that she may be a little bit nervous, and I wanted to use that and actually play as many games with that vibe as I can," said Swiatek. "But it's not easy to win the first set 6-0, because you always have in the back of the mind that your opponent may start playing better and they can change the tactics completely, and then you have to adjust and then you're going to start worrying." She was so focused she had not realised her opponent had not won a game. "When I was playing I didn't even know what was the score," admitted the 15th seed. "When my coach told me it was 6-0, 6-0, I was, like, Really? Isn't that a mistake?" "I will just quickly forget about today," said Pliskova, the former world number one, who was playing in her third consecutive Rome final. "She was having maybe a moment of her life "But you can see her results on clay, they are great. It's not just like, you know, luck."

'Perfectionist' Swiatek on high before Roland Garros title defence

French Open tennis tournament will be delayed by one week, the organisers of the Grand Slam confirmed on Thursday.&nbsp;

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The French Grand Slam will now take place from May 30 to June 13, the French Tennis Federation announced. According to the federation, the delay could allow more fans to attend the tournament if Covid-19 restrictions are eased by then.

The European country entered a third nationwide lockdown on Saturday to contain the surge in coronavirus, however, most of the sporting events in the country will be unaffected.&nbsp;

Recently, France's Sports Minister Roxana Maracineanu had said that the French Gand Slam could be postponed.&nbsp;

"We are in discussion with them (the French Tennis Federation, which organises the event) to see if we should change the date to coincide with a possible resumption of all sports and major events," Maracineanu told France Info radio late on Saturday.

"Today, although high-level sport has been preserved, we try to limit the risks of clusters, of spreading the virus within professional sports."

The French Grand Slam, last year, postponed by four months and took place in front of limited crowds, is due to start this year on May 23.

French President Emmanuel Macron, last week, said that he was expecting to re-open the country in mid-May.

The director-general of the French Tennis Federation, Gilles Moreton, said earlier this week that he could not imagine the Grand Slam tournament being cancelled.

French Open tennis tournament will be delayed by one week, the organisers of the Grand Slam confirmed on Thursday. ALSO READ: Paris, not Tokyo, could be last Olympics, hints gymnast Biles The French Grand Slam will now take place from May 30 to June 13, the French Tennis Federation announced.

French Open tennis tournament will be delayed by one week, the organisers of the Grand Slam confirmed on Thursday. ALSO READ: Paris, not Tokyo, could be last Olympics, hints gymnast Biles The French Grand Slam will now take place from May 30 to June 13, the French Tennis Federation announced. According to the federation, the delay could allow more fans to attend the tournament if Covid-19 restrictions are eased by then. The European country entered a third nationwide lockdown on Saturday to contain the surge in coronavirus, however, most of the sporting events in the country will be unaffected. Recently, France's Sports Minister Roxana Maracineanu had said that the French Gand Slam could be postponed. "We are in discussion with them (the French Tennis Federation, which organises the event) to see if we should change the date to coincide with a possible resumption of all sports and major events," Maracineanu told France Info radio late on Saturday. "Today, although high-level sport has been preserved, we try to limit the risks of clusters, of spreading the virus within professional sports." The French Grand Slam, last year, postponed by four months and took place in front of limited crowds, is due to start this year on May 23. French President Emmanuel Macron, last week, said that he was expecting to re-open the country in mid-May. The director-general of the French Tennis Federation, Gilles Moreton, said earlier this week that he could not imagine the Grand Slam tournament being cancelled.

French Open 2021 to be delayed by a week: Organisers

France's Sports Minister Roxana Maracineanu on Sunday said that this year's French Open could get postponed amidst the COVID-19 crisis.&nbsp;

The European country has entered a third nationwide lockdown on Saturday to contain the surge in coronavirus, however, most of the sporting events in the country will be unaffected.&nbsp;

"We are in discussion with them (the French Tennis Federation, which organises the event) to see if we should change the date to coincide with a possible resumption of all sports and major events," Maracineanu told France Info radio late on Saturday.

"Today, although high-level sport has been preserved, we try to limit the risks of clusters, of spreading the virus within professional sports."

The French Grand Slam, last year, postponed by four months and took place in front of limited crowds, is due to start this year on May 23.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday said that he was expecting to re-open the country in mid-May.

The director-general of the French Tennis Federation, Gilles Moreton, said earlier this week that he could not imagine the Grand Slam tournament being cancelled.

(Inputs from Reuters) &nbsp;

France's Sports Minister Roxana Maracineanu on Sunday said that this year's French Open could get postponed amidst the COVID-19 crisis. The European country has entered a third nationwide lockdown on Saturday to contain the surge in coronavirus, however, most of the sporting events in the country will be unaffected.

France's Sports Minister Roxana Maracineanu on Sunday said that this year's French Open could get postponed amidst the COVID-19 crisis. The European country has entered a third nationwide lockdown on Saturday to contain the surge in coronavirus, however, most of the sporting events in the country will be unaffected. "We are in discussion with them (the French Tennis Federation, which organises the event) to see if we should change the date to coincide with a possible resumption of all sports and major events," Maracineanu told France Info radio late on Saturday. "Today, although high-level sport has been preserved, we try to limit the risks of clusters, of spreading the virus within professional sports." The French Grand Slam, last year, postponed by four months and took place in front of limited crowds, is due to start this year on May 23. French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday said that he was expecting to re-open the country in mid-May. The director-general of the French Tennis Federation, Gilles Moreton, said earlier this week that he could not imagine the Grand Slam tournament being cancelled. (Inputs from Reuters)

French Open postponement a possibility amidst COVID-19 lockdown: Sports Minister

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic has had a splendid 2020 season. However, his season witnessed a decline as he got disqualified in the US Open and lost in the finals of Roland Garros. The world number one is a front runner in his bid to become the world’s most trophy-laden player.

Djokovic has 17 grand slam titles while Nadal and Federer are on 20 each after the Spaniard clinched a record 13th French Open title.

“There is a lingering regret that I didn’t win either the US Open or the Roland Garros this year,” a bearded Djokovic told reporters in drenching sun at his tennis academy in downtown Belgrade by the Danube river.

“I was in outstanding form at both events but having reached the French Open final, I was beaten by a player who was much better on the day.

“I was below par and that’s it. As far as the US Open is concerned, I got myself into an unfortunate situation and was disqualified, but I won several other big tournaments.

“The US Open disqualification notwithstanding, I have only lost one match all season and I’ve played some of the best tennis of my life.”

Djokovic dismissed suggestions he was under intense pressure to overhaul Nadal and Federer in their three-way race to become the greatest male player of all time.

“Pressure has been a part of my life for a long time and I’ve learned how to deal with it,” he said.

“It comes with the territory if you are a top-level athlete and it can also galvanise you. You take physical and mental knocks along the way but it’s all part of the learning curve.

“If I retired now I’d be happy with everything I have achieved but I still enjoy competing and every tournament I enter gives me so much motivation and joy.”

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic has had a splendid 2020 season. However, his season witnessed a decline as he got disqualified in the US Open and lost in the finals of Roland Garros.

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic has had a splendid 2020 season. However, his season witnessed a decline as he got disqualified in the US Open and lost in the finals of Roland Garros. The world number one is a front runner in his bid to become the world’s most trophy-laden player. Djokovic has 17 grand slam titles while Nadal and Federer are on 20 each after the Spaniard clinched a record 13th French Open title. “There is a lingering regret that I didn’t win either the US Open or the Roland Garros this year,” a bearded Djokovic told reporters in drenching sun at his tennis academy in downtown Belgrade by the Danube river. “I was in outstanding form at both events but having reached the French Open final, I was beaten by a player who was much better on the day. “I was below par and that’s it. As far as the US Open is concerned, I got myself into an unfortunate situation and was disqualified, but I won several other big tournaments. “The US Open disqualification notwithstanding, I have only lost one match all season and I’ve played some of the best tennis of my life.” Djokovic dismissed suggestions he was under intense pressure to overhaul Nadal and Federer in their three-way race to become the greatest male player of all time. “Pressure has been a part of my life for a long time and I’ve learned how to deal with it,” he said. “It comes with the territory if you are a top-level athlete and it can also galvanise you. You take physical and mental knocks along the way but it’s all part of the learning curve. “If I retired now I’d be happy with everything I have achieved but I still enjoy competing and every tournament I enter gives me so much motivation and joy.”

'There is a lingering regret': Novak Djokovic on US Open and Roland Garros

French Open champion Iga Swiatek, who became the first Polish player to win a Grand Slam singles title, said that she is trying to adjust to her brand new celebrity status. On Saturday, the 19-year-old defeated American ace Sofia Kenin 6-4 6-1 to become the youngest Roland Garros winner since Monica Seles in 1992.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/goat-social-media-erupts-as-rafael-nadal-wins-his-20th-grand-slam-title-334539" hreflang="en">GOAT! Social media erupts as Rafael Nadal wins his 20th Grand Slam title</a>

While talking to BBC back in Poland, she said, "It’s pretty crazy here."

"I feel like my life changed completely and I’m trying to get used to that. I left a different Poland that I came back to, because right now I’m kind of popular here."

Swiatek described the turn of events in her life after winning the prestigious Roland Garros and said that she can always call on Japan’s three-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka for support.

&nbsp;IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/french-open-2020-king-of-clay-rafael-nadals-20th-grand-slam-334707" hreflang="en">French Open 2020: 'King of Clay' Rafael Nadal's 20th Grand Slam!</a>

"I’m doing pretty well, but if I’m going to have any problems, then Naomi texted me that I can always ask her for advice or for support," she added.

"We had a quick chat on social media right after the final. I feel like I am supported, so it is great."

Swiatek was the first Polish woman to reach the Roland Garros final in 81 years.&nbsp;

"Basically I was in shock for the next three days," Swiatek said, adding that she would love to have some influence on the growth of the sport in her country. "I couldn’t tell you my emotions, because even I don’t understand them.

"I always wanted to win all four Grand Slams and to have an Olympic medal, and I always thought of it as a dream. But right now, when I actually won French Open, it stopped like being so distant for me."

French Open champion Iga Swiatek, who became the first Polish player to win a Grand Slam singles title, said that she is trying to adjust to her brand new celebrity status.

French Open champion Iga Swiatek, who became the first Polish player to win a Grand Slam singles title, said that she is trying to adjust to her brand new celebrity status. On Saturday, the 19-year-old defeated American ace Sofia Kenin 6-4 6-1 to become the youngest Roland Garros winner since Monica Seles in 1992. Also read: GOAT! Social media erupts as Rafael Nadal wins his 20th Grand Slam title While talking to BBC back in Poland, she said, "It’s pretty crazy here." "I feel like my life changed completely and I’m trying to get used to that. I left a different Poland that I came back to, because right now I’m kind of popular here." Swiatek described the turn of events in her life after winning the prestigious Roland Garros and said that she can always call on Japan’s three-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka for support. IN PICS| French Open 2020: 'King of Clay' Rafael Nadal's 20th Grand Slam! "I’m doing pretty well, but if I’m going to have any problems, then Naomi texted me that I can always ask her for advice or for support," she added. "We had a quick chat on social media right after the final. I feel like I am supported, so it is great." Swiatek was the first Polish woman to reach the Roland Garros final in 81 years. "Basically I was in shock for the next three days," Swiatek said, adding that she would love to have some influence on the growth of the sport in her country. "I couldn’t tell you my emotions, because even I don’t understand them. "I always wanted to win all four Grand Slams and to have an Olympic medal, and I always thought of it as a dream. But right now, when I actually won French Open, it stopped like being so distant for me."

'It’s pretty crazy here', Iga Swiatek on her brand new celebrity status

French Open 2020: 'King of Clay' Rafael Nadal's 20th Grand Slam!

Sofia Kenin and Iga Swiatek are set to lock horns at the women's singles finals at the French Open 2020 on Saturday. Poland's Swiatek has no experience of lifting any major trophy, whereas, the American ace Sofia Kenin has just won the Australian Open earlier this year.

Sofia Kenin and Iga Swiatek are set to lock horns at the women's singles finals at the French Open 2020 on Saturday. Poland's Swiatek has no experience of lifting any major trophy, whereas, the American ace Sofia Kenin has just won the Australian Open earlier this year. 19-year-old Swiatek will be playing her first major finals. The two players clashed in 2016, where the Polish player had defeated the American seed in the third round of the French Open junior tournament. No. 4 seeded Kenin will look forward to winning her second Grand Slam title of the season, whereas, her opponent Swiatek is rank no. 54 as per WTA rankings. Swiatek's rank happens to be the lowest rank for a finalist at Roland Garros since the WTA computer rankings were introduced in 1975. Where to watch FRENCH OPEN Finals LIVE streaming? In India, French Open will be broadcasted LIVE on Star Sports 2 and Star Sports Select 2. The tournament will also be streamed LIVE on Disney+ Hotstar. What time FRENCH OPEN Finals are scheduled for? Sofia Kenin vs Iga Swiatek Live Streaming at 6:30 AM

French Open women's single finals, Kenin vs Swiatek: Preview and timings

Novak Djokovic set up a blockbuster French Open title showdown with Rafael Nadal after a dramatic five-set semi-final victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas, but insisted Sunday's eagerly-awaited championship duel will "not be the biggest match of my life."

World number one Djokovic, the 2016 champion at Roland Garros, reached his fifth final in Paris, defeating Greek fifth seed Tsitsipas 6-3, 6-2, 5-7, 4-6, 6-1 in a roller-coaster of a contest where he had held a match point in the third set.

Nadal, the 12-time champion, eased past Diego Schwartzman 6-3, 6-3, 7-6 (7/0) to make a 13th final at the tournament.

On Sunday, Djokovic can win an 18th major and become the first man in half a century to win all four Slams twice.

Nadal, the world number two, can equal Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam title wins.

Djokovic is one of only two men to have defeated Nadal at Roland Garros in 15 years.

"This is the house of Rafa," said Djokovic ahead of the pair's 56th career clash and his 27th appearance in a Slam final.&nbsp;

"I will have the motivation to win. I beat him in the quarter-finals in 2015 but this will be the biggest challenge - playing Nadal on clay."

However, the Serb insisted that he has played far more significant finals and pointed to his first win over Nadal at a Slam at Wimbledon in 2011.

"I don't think it's the biggest match that I have ever played in my life. I think there were some bigger ones," Djokovic said as he attempted to ease some of the expectations ahead of Sunday.

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Wimbledon win more important' -</h2>

"In terms of importance, probably the first Wimbledon final that I actually played against him.&nbsp;

"Wimbledon was always the one that I wanted to win as a kid and dreamed of winning. That's probably the one that stands out."

Djokovic also put his 2016 Paris final win over Andy Murray, which allowed him to celebrate a career Grand Slam, above Sunday's latest instalment of his Nadal rivalry.

"Every French Open final that I played was the match of my life before I actually won it."

On Friday, Djokovic showed no sign of the neck and shoulder injuries which blighted his performance against Pablo Carreno Busta in the last eight as he stormed into a comfortable two-set lead.

Tsitsipas had seen 10 break points come and go and his first Roland Garros semi-final looked to be heading for an early finish until he staged a stunning comeback.

In the 10th game of the third set, Djokovic was unable to convert a match point.

He then picked up a time violation and the Greek exploited the top seed's sudden unease to claim the third set.

Djokovic squandered a huge 10 break points in the fourth set as Tsitsipas, who had also been two sets down in his opening match against Jaume Munar, levelled the tie.

However, Tsitsipas, feeling a thigh injury picked up in Rome, faded away in the decider, dropping serve twice to hand Djokovic a 4-1 lead.

He saved another match point but was powerless on the third as Djokovic fired a clean winner.

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Toughest opponent' -</h2>

"I think Novak is one of the most difficult opponents I've faced in my entire life," said Tsitsipas.

For 34-year-old Nadal, his win over Schwartzman was his 99th at Roland Garros.

He is into his 28th final at the majors and has not dropped a set in the tournament this year.

Nadal has a 6-1 career edge of Djokovic at Roland Garros although their last meeting was in 2015 when Djokovic won in straight sets in the quarter-finals.

Amongst their five other meetings in the French capital were wins for Nadal in the 2012 and 2014 finals.

"Novak is one of the toughest opponents possible. But I am here to keep trying my best. I like to play in this scenario," said Nadal.

"I know I have to make a step forward. I think I did one today against Diego. But for Sunday it is not enough.&nbsp;

"I need to make another one. That's what I'm looking for. I going to work hard to try to make that happen."&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic set up a blockbuster French Open title showdown with Rafael Nadal after a dramatic five-set semi-final victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas, but insisted Sunday's eagerly-awaited championship duel will "not be the biggest match of my life.

Novak Djokovic set up a blockbuster French Open title showdown with Rafael Nadal after a dramatic five-set semi-final victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas, but insisted Sunday's eagerly-awaited championship duel will "not be the biggest match of my life." World number one Djokovic, the 2016 champion at Roland Garros, reached his fifth final in Paris, defeating Greek fifth seed Tsitsipas 6-3, 6-2, 5-7, 4-6, 6-1 in a roller-coaster of a contest where he had held a match point in the third set. Nadal, the 12-time champion, eased past Diego Schwartzman 6-3, 6-3, 7-6 (7/0) to make a 13th final at the tournament. On Sunday, Djokovic can win an 18th major and become the first man in half a century to win all four Slams twice. Nadal, the world number two, can equal Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam title wins. Djokovic is one of only two men to have defeated Nadal at Roland Garros in 15 years. "This is the house of Rafa," said Djokovic ahead of the pair's 56th career clash and his 27th appearance in a Slam final. "I will have the motivation to win. I beat him in the quarter-finals in 2015 but this will be the biggest challenge - playing Nadal on clay." However, the Serb insisted that he has played far more significant finals and pointed to his first win over Nadal at a Slam at Wimbledon in 2011. "I don't think it's the biggest match that I have ever played in my life. I think there were some bigger ones," Djokovic said as he attempted to ease some of the expectations ahead of Sunday. - 'Wimbledon win more important' - "In terms of importance, probably the first Wimbledon final that I actually played against him. "Wimbledon was always the one that I wanted to win as a kid and dreamed of winning. That's probably the one that stands out." Djokovic also put his 2016 Paris final win over Andy Murray, which allowed him to celebrate a career Grand Slam, above Sunday's latest instalment of his Nadal rivalry. "Every French Open final that I played was the match of my life before I actually won it." On Friday, Djokovic showed no sign of the neck and shoulder injuries which blighted his performance against Pablo Carreno Busta in the last eight as he stormed into a comfortable two-set lead. Tsitsipas had seen 10 break points come and go and his first Roland Garros semi-final looked to be heading for an early finish until he staged a stunning comeback. In the 10th game of the third set, Djokovic was unable to convert a match point. He then picked up a time violation and the Greek exploited the top seed's sudden unease to claim the third set. Djokovic squandered a huge 10 break points in the fourth set as Tsitsipas, who had also been two sets down in his opening match against Jaume Munar, levelled the tie. However, Tsitsipas, feeling a thigh injury picked up in Rome, faded away in the decider, dropping serve twice to hand Djokovic a 4-1 lead. He saved another match point but was powerless on the third as Djokovic fired a clean winner. - 'Toughest opponent' - "I think Novak is one of the most difficult opponents I've faced in my entire life," said Tsitsipas. For 34-year-old Nadal, his win over Schwartzman was his 99th at Roland Garros. He is into his 28th final at the majors and has not dropped a set in the tournament this year. Nadal has a 6-1 career edge of Djokovic at Roland Garros although their last meeting was in 2015 when Djokovic won in straight sets in the quarter-finals. Amongst their five other meetings in the French capital were wins for Nadal in the 2012 and 2014 finals. "Novak is one of the toughest opponents possible. But I am here to keep trying my best. I like to play in this scenario," said Nadal. "I know I have to make a step forward. I think I did one today against Diego. But for Sunday it is not enough. "I need to make another one. That's what I'm looking for. I going to work hard to try to make that happen."

Djokovic to face Nadal in French Open final blockbuster, but not 'biggest match'

Greece's Tsitsipas will take on Serbian and world no 1 Novak Djokovic in the semifinals of French Open. Also read: Kenin downs Kvitova to set up French Open final with teen Swiatek Djokovic will be looking for his second Roland Garros title, whereas, Tsitipas is the first Greek player to reach the last four in Paris.

Greece's Tsitsipas will take on Serbian and world no 1 Novak Djokovic in the semifinals of French Open. Also read: Kenin downs Kvitova to set up French Open final with teen Swiatek Djokovic will be looking for his second Roland Garros title, whereas, Tsitipas is the first Greek player to reach the last four in Paris. If Djokovic wins the French Open, he'll have 18 Grand Slams to his name and will become the first man in half a century to win all four majors twice. Also read: 'Every time a match gets complicated...' - Carreno Busta accuses Djokovic of faking injury 22-year-old Tsitsipas will be playing in his second semi-final at the majors having also reached the last four at the 2019 Australian Open, has been a strong candidate to win the tournament. Tsitsipas has clashed with the Serb once before on clay during the 2019 Madrid final, where he had to suffer the loss in straight sets. In the head-to-head stats, Djokovic wins 3-2 against Tsitsipas. In the first semifinals match, French Open legend Nadal will face Schwartzman. Where to watch FRENCH OPEN Semifinals LIVE streaming? In India, French Open will be broadcasted LIVE on Star Sports 2 and Star Sports Select 2. The tournament will also be streamed LIVE on Disney+ Hotstar. What time Semi-Finals are scheduled for? Semifinals 1 – Nadal vs Schwartzman Live Streaming at 6.20 PM IST Semifinals 2 – Djokovic vs Tsitsipas Live Streaming at 9:00 PM IST

French Open, Djokovic vs Tsitsipas: Preview and where to watch it online

Spanish tennis star Pablo Carreno Busta on Wednesday accused Novak Djokovic of poor sportsmanship during their Roland Garros quarter-final on Wednesday as he felt the world number one didn’t have any genuine health concerns despite battling injury problems.

Djokovic, one of the favourites for the French Open, had his neck taped during the match on Court Philippe Chatrier with restricted movement during the opening set against the world number 18. The Serb further asked his trainer on court to resolve some issues with his upper left arm.

However, the Serbian recovered well and qualified for the semi-finals with a 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4 win and later added that he had to deal with some physical issues during the early part of his encounter against Busta.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-an-adult-now-tsitsipas-chasing-something-spectacular-in-paris-333441" hreflang="en">'I'm an adult now': Tsitsipas chasing 'something spectacular' in Paris</a>

“Each time he is in trouble he usually does it, that means to say that he was in trouble, that he wasn’t comfortable and that I was playing at a high level and was causing him to doubt himself,” Carreno Busta told reporters in Spanish.

“Every time a match gets complicated he asks for medical assistance. He has been doing this for a long time. I already knew that. I knew it would happen at the U.S. Open, I knew it would happen here and I know it will keep on happening.

“I don’t know if it’s something chronic in his shoulder or just mental, but he didn’t put me off.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/second-seeded-rafael-nadal-into-14th-roland-garros-quarter-final-332502" hreflang="en">Second seeded Rafael Nadal into 14th Roland Garros quarter-final</a>

Djokovic also banged his racket against his thigh in frustration following the opening set, the first he lost at this year’s claycourt Grand Slam.

“I don’t know, maybe it’s the pressure or something that he needs to do it. But he continues playing normal, no? I don’t know if he’s (in) pain really or he has mental (issues). Ask him,” Carreno Busta said in English. 
&nbsp;

Spanish tennis star Pablo Carreno Busta on Wednesday accused Novak Djokovic of poor sportsmanship during their Roland Garros quarter-final on Wednesday as he felt the world number one didn’t have any genuine health concerns despite battling injury problems.

Spanish tennis star Pablo Carreno Busta on Wednesday accused Novak Djokovic of poor sportsmanship during their Roland Garros quarter-final on Wednesday as he felt the world number one didn’t have any genuine health concerns despite battling injury problems. Djokovic, one of the favourites for the French Open, had his neck taped during the match on Court Philippe Chatrier with restricted movement during the opening set against the world number 18. The Serb further asked his trainer on court to resolve some issues with his upper left arm. However, the Serbian recovered well and qualified for the semi-finals with a 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4 win and later added that he had to deal with some physical issues during the early part of his encounter against Busta. ALSO READ: 'I'm an adult now': Tsitsipas chasing 'something spectacular' in Paris “Each time he is in trouble he usually does it, that means to say that he was in trouble, that he wasn’t comfortable and that I was playing at a high level and was causing him to doubt himself,” Carreno Busta told reporters in Spanish. “Every time a match gets complicated he asks for medical assistance. He has been doing this for a long time. I already knew that. I knew it would happen at the U.S. Open, I knew it would happen here and I know it will keep on happening. “I don’t know if it’s something chronic in his shoulder or just mental, but he didn’t put me off.” ALSO READ: Second seeded Rafael Nadal into 14th Roland Garros quarter-final Djokovic also banged his racket against his thigh in frustration following the opening set, the first he lost at this year’s claycourt Grand Slam. “I don’t know, maybe it’s the pressure or something that he needs to do it. But he continues playing normal, no? I don’t know if he’s (in) pain really or he has mental (issues). Ask him,” Carreno Busta said in English.

'Every time a match gets complicated...' - Carreno Busta accuses Djokovic of faking injury

Stefanos Tsitsipas insists he's "chasing something spectacular" at Roland Garros as he attempts to become the first Greek to win a Grand Slam title.

The 22-year-old reached the semi-finals in Paris for the first time on Wednesday with an impressive 7-5, 6-2, 6-3 win over Russia's Andrey Rublev.

Tsitsipas made his big breakthrough at the 2019 Australian Open where he defeated Roger Federer on his way to a maiden last-four spot at the Slams.

However, he hasn't kicked on at the majors with a last-16 exit in Paris last season followed by first round defeats at Wimbledon and the US Open.

He was a surprise champion at the ATP Finals in London at the back end of 2019 before third round exits in Melbourne and New York when he returned to 2020 duty at the Slams.

"I'm chasing something spectacular," said world number six Tsitsipas, the youngest player in the top 10.

Now with two runs to the last four at the Slams, Tsitsipas believes his time is near despite the stranglehold over the majors exercised by Federer, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal.

"I would like to tell you that I'm not a NextGen player any more. I'm a proper adult," he said.

"Second of all, for sure it's going to come at some point. The big three have been there for a long time.&nbsp;I don't feel like it's going to be the same in five, six years' time, I believe."

Since dropping the first two sets of his opener in Paris against Spain's Jaume Munar, the Greek has been on an impressive run, winning 15 sets in succession.

Should he go all the way and lift the title on Sunday, he would be the youngest men's Grand Slam champion since Juan Martin del Potro at the US Open in 2009.

However, to get there, he will probably have to defeat world number one Djokovic in the semi-final and 12-time champion Nadal in the final.

Stefanos Tsitsipas insists he's "chasing something spectacular" at Roland Garros as he attempts to become the first Greek to win a Grand Slam title. The 22-year-old reached the semi-finals in Paris for the first time on Wednesday with an impressive 7-5, 6-2, 6-3 win over Russia's Andrey Rublev.

Stefanos Tsitsipas insists he's "chasing something spectacular" at Roland Garros as he attempts to become the first Greek to win a Grand Slam title. The 22-year-old reached the semi-finals in Paris for the first time on Wednesday with an impressive 7-5, 6-2, 6-3 win over Russia's Andrey Rublev. Tsitsipas made his big breakthrough at the 2019 Australian Open where he defeated Roger Federer on his way to a maiden last-four spot at the Slams. However, he hasn't kicked on at the majors with a last-16 exit in Paris last season followed by first round defeats at Wimbledon and the US Open. He was a surprise champion at the ATP Finals in London at the back end of 2019 before third round exits in Melbourne and New York when he returned to 2020 duty at the Slams. "I'm chasing something spectacular," said world number six Tsitsipas, the youngest player in the top 10. Now with two runs to the last four at the Slams, Tsitsipas believes his time is near despite the stranglehold over the majors exercised by Federer, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal. "I would like to tell you that I'm not a NextGen player any more. I'm a proper adult," he said. "Second of all, for sure it's going to come at some point. The big three have been there for a long time. I don't feel like it's going to be the same in five, six years' time, I believe." Since dropping the first two sets of his opener in Paris against Spain's Jaume Munar, the Greek has been on an impressive run, winning 15 sets in succession. Should he go all the way and lift the title on Sunday, he would be the youngest men's Grand Slam champion since Juan Martin del Potro at the US Open in 2009. However, to get there, he will probably have to defeat world number one Djokovic in the semi-final and 12-time champion Nadal in the final.

'I'm an adult now': Tsitsipas chasing 'something spectacular' in Paris

Rafael&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;defeated American qualifier Sebastian Korda 6-1, 6-1, 6-2 to reach the Roland Garros quarter-finals for the 14th time on Sunday, staying comfortably on course for a 13th French Open title and record-equalling 20th Grand Slam crown.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/swiatek-hailed-as-beast-after-stunning-top-seed-halep-at-roland-garros-332476" hreflang="en">Swiatek hailed as 'beast' after stunning top seed Halep at Roland Garros</a>

Second seed&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;racked up his 97th win at the tournament against just two defeats since his title-winning debut in 2005.

He goes on to face either German sixth seed Alexander Zverev or Italian teenager Jannik Sinner in what will be his 42nd career appearance in the last eight of a Grand Slam.

Korda, the world number 213 and son of 1998 Australian Open champion and 1992 Roland Garros runner-up Petr Korda, never really recovered from slipping quickly to a 5-0 deficit in the first set.

The 20-year-old, who was so in awe of&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;when he was growing up that he named his cat after the Spaniard, had the consolation of breaking serve once in the third set.

However, it was a brief respite as 34-year-old&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;swept into the last eight without dropping a set and with his opponent left to rue 48 unforced errors on a chilly, blustery day in the French capital.

"It was a good performance and I am happy with that," said&nbsp;Nadal. "But Sebastian will be a great player in the future, it's impressive to see him hit the ball so well."

Rafael Nadal defeated American qualifier Sebastian Korda 6-1, 6-1, 6-2 to reach the Roland Garros quarter-finals for the 14th time on Sunday, staying comfortably on course for a 13th French Open title and record-equalling 20th Grand Slam crown.

Rafael Nadal defeated American qualifier Sebastian Korda 6-1, 6-1, 6-2 to reach the Roland Garros quarter-finals for the 14th time on Sunday, staying comfortably on course for a 13th French Open title and record-equalling 20th Grand Slam crown. Also read: Swiatek hailed as 'beast' after stunning top seed Halep at Roland Garros Second seed Nadal racked up his 97th win at the tournament against just two defeats since his title-winning debut in 2005. He goes on to face either German sixth seed Alexander Zverev or Italian teenager Jannik Sinner in what will be his 42nd career appearance in the last eight of a Grand Slam. Korda, the world number 213 and son of 1998 Australian Open champion and 1992 Roland Garros runner-up Petr Korda, never really recovered from slipping quickly to a 5-0 deficit in the first set. The 20-year-old, who was so in awe of Nadal when he was growing up that he named his cat after the Spaniard, had the consolation of breaking serve once in the third set. However, it was a brief respite as 34-year-old Nadal swept into the last eight without dropping a set and with his opponent left to rue 48 unforced errors on a chilly, blustery day in the French capital. "It was a good performance and I am happy with that," said Nadal. "But Sebastian will be a great player in the future, it's impressive to see him hit the ball so well."

Second seeded Rafael Nadal into 14th Roland Garros quarter-final

Top seed Novak Djokovic continued his imperious progress at the French Open with a 6-0 6-3 6-2 drubbing of Colombian Daniel Galan to effortlessly reach the last 16 for the 11th straight year on Saturday.

The 33-year-old was rarely extended by his 153rd-ranked opponent and even found time to double up as a court sweeper when the match was briefly interrupted by rain.

Djokovic, like 12-time champion Rafa Nadal, has reached the fourth round without the loss of a set although things will toughen up with powerful Russian Karen Khachanov up next.

The 33-year-old Serb won the first set in 28 minutes and when he broke for a 2-0 lead in the second set a rare 'triple bagel' looked a possibility.

But Galan, a lucky loser from qualifying, got on the board with a rasping forehand winner which brought loud cheers from the small crowd on Court Philippe Chatrier.

With heavy rain falling and the new roof sliding slowly across, meaning Galan was exposed to the elements and Djokovic was not, the Serb ordered the chair umpire to halt play after his opponent slipped during a rally on the muddy baseline.

After groundsmen with wheelbarrows had spread more clay across the court to improve the slimy surface, a laughing Djokovic offered a hand, grabbing a sweeper, before resuming his day job with the roof closed.

Djokovic was surprised the roof had not been closed earlier.

"I saw the forecast and it didn't look good at all," he said. "If you have a roof why not use it. I thought we lost quite a bit of time."

He has certainly not been wasting any time so far in the French capital and once play resumed the outcome was never in doubt, although Galan did make the world number one work up a sweat with some courageous tennis of his own.

Djokovic, bidding for his second title at Roland Garros and 18th Grand Slam, saved four break points in a competitive third set before completing his 71st French Open match win, taking him past Roger Federer into second place behind Nadal who has 96.

Top seed Novak Djokovic continued his imperious progress at the French Open with a 6-0 6-3 6-2 drubbing of Colombian Daniel Galan to effortlessly reach the last 16 for the 11th straight year on Saturday.

Top seed Novak Djokovic continued his imperious progress at the French Open with a 6-0 6-3 6-2 drubbing of Colombian Daniel Galan to effortlessly reach the last 16 for the 11th straight year on Saturday. The 33-year-old was rarely extended by his 153rd-ranked opponent and even found time to double up as a court sweeper when the match was briefly interrupted by rain. Djokovic, like 12-time champion Rafa Nadal, has reached the fourth round without the loss of a set although things will toughen up with powerful Russian Karen Khachanov up next. The 33-year-old Serb won the first set in 28 minutes and when he broke for a 2-0 lead in the second set a rare 'triple bagel' looked a possibility. But Galan, a lucky loser from qualifying, got on the board with a rasping forehand winner which brought loud cheers from the small crowd on Court Philippe Chatrier. With heavy rain falling and the new roof sliding slowly across, meaning Galan was exposed to the elements and Djokovic was not, the Serb ordered the chair umpire to halt play after his opponent slipped during a rally on the muddy baseline. After groundsmen with wheelbarrows had spread more clay across the court to improve the slimy surface, a laughing Djokovic offered a hand, grabbing a sweeper, before resuming his day job with the roof closed. Djokovic was surprised the roof had not been closed earlier. "I saw the forecast and it didn't look good at all," he said. "If you have a roof why not use it. I thought we lost quite a bit of time." He has certainly not been wasting any time so far in the French capital and once play resumed the outcome was never in doubt, although Galan did make the world number one work up a sweat with some courageous tennis of his own. Djokovic, bidding for his second title at Roland Garros and 18th Grand Slam, saved four break points in a competitive third set before completing his 71st French Open match win, taking him past Roger Federer into second place behind Nadal who has 96.

French Open: Serbian ace Djokovic sweeps past Galan into last 16

Polish teenager Iga Swiatek was hailed by her coach as "the beast of the competition" after she stormed to a shock 6-1, 6-2 victory over top seed and 2018 champion Simona Halep to reach the Roland Garros quarter-finals on Sunday.

Swiatek, just 19 and ranked 54 in the world, fired 30 winners past title favourite Halep with the Romanian failing to even register a single break point in her 68-minute loss.

"She's a beast of the competition I would call her," said her coach, Piotr Sierzputowski.

"She loves to compete, she never likes to practise, it's so boring for her. But when it comes to the matches, she's there."

Swiatek will face qualifier Martina Trevisan, ranked 159, for a place in the semi-finals after the Italian stunned Dutch fifth seed Kiki Bertens 6-4, 6-4.

Sunday's performance was an incredible turnaround for the Pole who won just one game against Halep at the same stage in Paris last year, swept off court in just 45 minutes.

"Last year I wasn't experienced enough, it was my first match in a big stadium so I was a little stressed," Swiatek admitted.

"But I have made a lot of progress since then, playing girls like Simona, Naomi Osaka and Caroline Wozniacki. Now I can handle the pressure."

In 2019, Swiatek was also juggling her playing career with her high school studies.

"It was always difficult," said Sierzputowski. "I had to schedule practice in the morning at seven because she had to go to the school.&nbsp;

"She's coming to the practice tired and I'm asking, Why are you tired? Did you sleep well? No, I was studying in the night. So of course it's something you can free your mind, but then you put a lot of pressure on yourself because you know you started being pro."

Swiatek has reached the quarter-finals without dropping a set. In the first round, she knocked out 15th seed Marketa Vondrousova, the 2019 runner-up, for the loss of just three games.

"I am surprised I could do this," she admitted after ending the 17-match winning streak of Halep who was the overwhelming favourite in the absence of 2019 champion Ashleigh Barty and US Open winner Osaka and the injury-enforced withdrawal of Serena Williams.

"I felt like I played a great match."&nbsp;

Swiatek, who will be playing in her first quarter-finals at the majors, swept through the opening set in just 23 minutes, firing 17 winners to Halep's four.

The teenager tightened her grip, breaking in the first game of the second set with Halep having to fight off four break points in the third game to stay afloat.

Swiatek's assault continued against a player who arrived in Paris with claycourt titles in Prague and Rome.

Halep, 29, saved five more break points in the fifth game but a weary forehand drifted wide and her Polish opponent was 4-1 up with the cushion of a double break.

She took victory on a second match point.

"She played really well, it was her match today," admitted Halep who said she'll quickly get over her disappointment with her season now at an end.

"I will have a chocolate and I will be better tomorrow."

Polish teenager Iga Swiatek was hailed by her coach as "the beast of the competition" after she stormed to a shock 6-1, 6-2 victory over top seed and 2018 champion Simona Halep to reach the Roland Garros quarter-finals on Sunday.

Polish teenager Iga Swiatek was hailed by her coach as "the beast of the competition" after she stormed to a shock 6-1, 6-2 victory over top seed and 2018 champion Simona Halep to reach the Roland Garros quarter-finals on Sunday. Swiatek, just 19 and ranked 54 in the world, fired 30 winners past title favourite Halep with the Romanian failing to even register a single break point in her 68-minute loss. "She's a beast of the competition I would call her," said her coach, Piotr Sierzputowski. "She loves to compete, she never likes to practise, it's so boring for her. But when it comes to the matches, she's there." Swiatek will face qualifier Martina Trevisan, ranked 159, for a place in the semi-finals after the Italian stunned Dutch fifth seed Kiki Bertens 6-4, 6-4. Sunday's performance was an incredible turnaround for the Pole who won just one game against Halep at the same stage in Paris last year, swept off court in just 45 minutes. "Last year I wasn't experienced enough, it was my first match in a big stadium so I was a little stressed," Swiatek admitted. "But I have made a lot of progress since then, playing girls like Simona, Naomi Osaka and Caroline Wozniacki. Now I can handle the pressure." In 2019, Swiatek was also juggling her playing career with her high school studies. "It was always difficult," said Sierzputowski. "I had to schedule practice in the morning at seven because she had to go to the school. "She's coming to the practice tired and I'm asking, Why are you tired? Did you sleep well? No, I was studying in the night. So of course it's something you can free your mind, but then you put a lot of pressure on yourself because you know you started being pro." Swiatek has reached the quarter-finals without dropping a set. In the first round, she knocked out 15th seed Marketa Vondrousova, the 2019 runner-up, for the loss of just three games. "I am surprised I could do this," she admitted after ending the 17-match winning streak of Halep who was the overwhelming favourite in the absence of 2019 champion Ashleigh Barty and US Open winner Osaka and the injury-enforced withdrawal of Serena Williams. "I felt like I played a great match." Swiatek, who will be playing in her first quarter-finals at the majors, swept through the opening set in just 23 minutes, firing 17 winners to Halep's four. The teenager tightened her grip, breaking in the first game of the second set with Halep having to fight off four break points in the third game to stay afloat. Swiatek's assault continued against a player who arrived in Paris with claycourt titles in Prague and Rome. Halep, 29, saved five more break points in the fifth game but a weary forehand drifted wide and her Polish opponent was 4-1 up with the cushion of a double break. She took victory on a second match point. "She played really well, it was her match today," admitted Halep who said she'll quickly get over her disappointment with her season now at an end. "I will have a chocolate and I will be better tomorrow."

Swiatek hailed as 'beast' after stunning top seed Halep at Roland Garros

Novak Djokovic admits he knows absolutely nothing about Daniel Galan, the world number 153 from Colombia who stands in his way of a place in the last 16 at Roland Garros on Saturday.

That may be just as well as Galan, a 24-year-old lucky loser from qualifying, says he's not a "diehard follower" of the world number one.

"I don't know much about him, to be honest," said Djokovic, the 2016 French Open champion who is chasing an 18th Grand Slam title.

"I have never seen him play, so I'll have to obviously look at his matches, the videos, and try to prepare myself with my team."

Djokovic, whose 2020 record now stands at 33 wins against just one loss, is bidding to become the first man in half a century to win all four Slams twice.

His second round win over Ricardas Berankis was his 70th at the tournament. The 33-year-old has now won at least 70 matches at all the majors.

By contrast, Galan's only two wins at the Slams have come in Paris this week.

"As a child I grew up with the rivalry between (Roger) Federer and (Marat) Safin," said Galan. "When I was older I admired (Rafael) Nadal for what he has achieved."

Galan was one of nine players outside the top 100 to have reached the third round, the most in Paris since 1985.

"Djokovic has no weaknesses, although I am not saying that he is invincible, otherwise he would never have lost a match," added Galan, the first Colombian to reach the third round of a major since Santiago Giraldo in Paris in 2012.&nbsp;

On the day after world number 239 Hugo Gaston and Sebastian Korda, ranked at 213, made the last 16, German qualifier Daniel Altmaier struck another blow for the underdog.

The world number 186 stunned seventh seed Matteo Berrettini of Italy 6-2, 7-6 (7/5), 6-4, becoming just the fourth man to reach the round of 16 on his Grand Slam debut since 2000.

Victory also means an unexpected financial windfall for the German who is guaranteed to make at least $221,400 by reaching the last 16 having earned $173,600 in his entire six-year career.

<h2>Injured before Paris'&nbsp;</h2>

"I didn't know if I was going to be able to play in Paris as I was injured the week before at a tournament in Aix," said Altmaier who had previously only won one ATP Tour match in his career.

"But the doctor gave me the go-ahead so I am super-pleased to be here. The tournament continues for me and I am happy to keep going."

Russian 13th seed Andrey Rublev, the champion on clay in Hamburg on the eve of Roland Garros, eased past veteran South African Kevin Anderson in just 94 minutes.

Rublev didn't face a break point in his 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 win as he moved into the last 16 for the first time.

Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas bids to make the fourth round for a second successive year. He faces Slovenia's Aljaz Bedene, the world number 56.

Tsitsipas had to come back from two sets down to defeat Jaume Munar in the first round but then swept past Uruguayan clay court specialist Pablo Cuevas for the loss of just seven games.

In the women's draw, 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko, who knocked out second seed Karolina Pliskova on Thursday, takes on Spain's Paula Badosa.&nbsp;

The New York-born Badosa, ranked 87, is making her Roland Garros debut and marked the occasion by stunning former US Open champion and 2018 Roland Garros finalist Sloane Stephens in the second round.

Australian Open champion and fourth seed Sofia Kenin is up against Romanian qualifier Irina Bara, ranked at 142. Kenin stunned Serena Williams at the same stage of last year's tournament.

Spain's Garbine Muguruza, the 2016 champion in Paris and seeded 11 this year, plays&nbsp;Danielle Collins of the United States who is enjoying her best run at the tournament.

French wildcard Clara Burel, just 19 and ranked a lowly 357, faces experienced Chinese player Zhang Shuai who is attempting to become the first Chinese woman in the second week since former champion Li Na in 2012.

Two-time Wimbledon winner Petra Kvitova, seeded seven, meets Leylah Fernandez for a last-16 spot.

The 100th-ranked Fernandez, just 18, won the girls' title in Paris last year and is now making waves on her main draw debut after taking down 31st seed Magda Linette and 47th-ranked Polona Hercog.

Novak Djokovic admits he knows absolutely nothing about Daniel Galan, the world number 153 from Colombia who stands in his way of a place in the last 16 at Roland Garros on Saturday.

Novak Djokovic admits he knows absolutely nothing about Daniel Galan, the world number 153 from Colombia who stands in his way of a place in the last 16 at Roland Garros on Saturday. That may be just as well as Galan, a 24-year-old lucky loser from qualifying, says he's not a "diehard follower" of the world number one. "I don't know much about him, to be honest," said Djokovic, the 2016 French Open champion who is chasing an 18th Grand Slam title. "I have never seen him play, so I'll have to obviously look at his matches, the videos, and try to prepare myself with my team." Djokovic, whose 2020 record now stands at 33 wins against just one loss, is bidding to become the first man in half a century to win all four Slams twice. His second round win over Ricardas Berankis was his 70th at the tournament. The 33-year-old has now won at least 70 matches at all the majors. By contrast, Galan's only two wins at the Slams have come in Paris this week. "As a child I grew up with the rivalry between (Roger) Federer and (Marat) Safin," said Galan. "When I was older I admired (Rafael) Nadal for what he has achieved." Galan was one of nine players outside the top 100 to have reached the third round, the most in Paris since 1985. "Djokovic has no weaknesses, although I am not saying that he is invincible, otherwise he would never have lost a match," added Galan, the first Colombian to reach the third round of a major since Santiago Giraldo in Paris in 2012. On the day after world number 239 Hugo Gaston and Sebastian Korda, ranked at 213, made the last 16, German qualifier Daniel Altmaier struck another blow for the underdog. The world number 186 stunned seventh seed Matteo Berrettini of Italy 6-2, 7-6 (7/5), 6-4, becoming just the fourth man to reach the round of 16 on his Grand Slam debut since 2000. Victory also means an unexpected financial windfall for the German who is guaranteed to make at least $221,400 by reaching the last 16 having earned $173,600 in his entire six-year career. Injured before Paris' "I didn't know if I was going to be able to play in Paris as I was injured the week before at a tournament in Aix," said Altmaier who had previously only won one ATP Tour match in his career. "But the doctor gave me the go-ahead so I am super-pleased to be here. The tournament continues for me and I am happy to keep going." Russian 13th seed Andrey Rublev, the champion on clay in Hamburg on the eve of Roland Garros, eased past veteran South African Kevin Anderson in just 94 minutes. Rublev didn't face a break point in his 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 win as he moved into the last 16 for the first time. Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas bids to make the fourth round for a second successive year. He faces Slovenia's Aljaz Bedene, the world number 56. Tsitsipas had to come back from two sets down to defeat Jaume Munar in the first round but then swept past Uruguayan clay court specialist Pablo Cuevas for the loss of just seven games. In the women's draw, 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko, who knocked out second seed Karolina Pliskova on Thursday, takes on Spain's Paula Badosa. The New York-born Badosa, ranked 87, is making her Roland Garros debut and marked the occasion by stunning former US Open champion and 2018 Roland Garros finalist Sloane Stephens in the second round. Australian Open champion and fourth seed Sofia Kenin is up against Romanian qualifier Irina Bara, ranked at 142. Kenin stunned Serena Williams at the same stage of last year's tournament. Spain's Garbine Muguruza, the 2016 champion in Paris and seeded 11 this year, plays Danielle Collins of the United States who is enjoying her best run at the tournament. French wildcard Clara Burel, just 19 and ranked a lowly 357, faces experienced Chinese player Zhang Shuai who is attempting to become the first Chinese woman in the second week since former champion Li Na in 2012. Two-time Wimbledon winner Petra Kvitova, seeded seven, meets Leylah Fernandez for a last-16 spot. The 100th-ranked Fernandez, just 18, won the girls' title in Paris last year and is now making waves on her main draw debut after taking down 31st seed Magda Linette and 47th-ranked Polona Hercog.

Djokovic takes trip into Roland Garros unknown against Nadal fan

Rafael Nadal charged into the French Open last 16 on Friday and took another confident stride towards equalling Roger Federer's record of 20 major titles while a crop of rising youngsters offered tantalising glimpses of their potential.

The 12-time Roland Garros champion dispatched Italian world number 74 Stefano Travaglia 6-1, 6-4, 6-0 in just 95 minutes, notching his 96th victory at the tournament.

"I think today I played the best match this year at Roland Garros," said Nadal.

Nadal next faces 213th-ranked American qualifier Sebastian Korda, the son of 1998 Australian Open champion and 1992 French Open runner-up Petr Korda, for a quarter-final spot.

"He's my biggest idol. He's one of the reasons I play tennis," Korda said of the Spaniard.

"Growing up, I named my cat Rafa after him. That says a lot about how much I love the guy."

The 20-year-old Korda beat Pedro Martinez in straight sets to become the first man outside the top 200 to make the last 16 in Paris since France's Arnaud di Pasquale in 2002.&nbsp;

Hugo Gaston, also 20, quickly became the second such lowly-ranked man in the fourth round when the world number 239 shocked 2015 champion Stan Wawrinka 2-6, 6-3, 6-3, 4-6, 6-0 in a rain-interrupted tie.

Gaston goes on to play US Open winner and Austrian third seed Dominic Thiem, the runner-up to Nadal in Paris the past two years.

"It's amazing for me, it's a dream. But I try to stay focused," said Gaston, the lone Frenchman remaining in the draw. "I'm feeling tired with the adrenaline rush but I still have some gas."

"I'm not going to put pressure on myself and will try to play relaxed like I did today," he added.

At 19, Italian teenager Jannik Sinner is the youngest player to reach the fourth round at Roland Garros since Novak Djokovic in 2006.

Last year's Next Gen champion made the second week of a Grand Slam for the first time by beating Federico Coria 6-3, 7-5, 7-5.

He will meet the US Open runner-up Alexander Zverev after the German sixth seed ended the run of qualifier and 2018 semi-finalist Marco Cecchinato in three sets.

"I'm just trying to improve day after day," said the 75th-ranked Sinner, who is yet to drop a set in Paris.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Halep gets revenge -</h2>

&nbsp;

Top seed and title favourite Simona Halep, the 2018 champion, avenged last year's Roland Garros loss to Amanda Anisimova by thrashing the American teenager 6-0, 6-1 in only 54 minutes.

The reigning Wimbledon champion made only seven unforced errors as she stretched her career-best winning run to 17 matches.

"I think I played a really good match. I was very aggressive and I knew from last year I had to change something and I did that today," said Halep. "I took the game in my hands."

Halep meets another 19-year-old opponent, Poland's Iga Swiatek, for a place in the quarter-finals. She dropped just one game when the pair met here in the last 16 a year ago.

Halep's status as the women's frontrunner was reinforced following the withdrawal of Serena Williams, on top of the absence of world number one and defending champion Ashleigh Barty, as well as US Open winner Naomi Osaka.

"I don't feel the pressure. Of course I expect from myself to play good tennis but that doesn't mean I have to win every match," said Halep.

"I just want to try to take my chance every time I step on the court, and I'm not thinking about title. It's very far (off)."&nbsp;

Thiem made surprisingly short work of Norwegian 28th seed Casper Ruud, who has won more tour-level matches on clay than anyone else this season.

"In general I was super happy with my performance. I think was one of the best ones this year," said Thiem following an impressive 6-4, 6-3, 6-1 victory.

Two-time quarter-finalist Elina Svitolina ensured she will stick around for the second week with a 6-4, 7-5 win over Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova, the 27th seed.

Svitolina will next play home hope Caroline Garcia, who upset 16th seed Elise Mertens 1-6, 6-4, 7-5.

Italy's Lorenzo Sonego edged a 36-point tiebreak against Taylor Fritz to complete a 7-6 (7/5), 6-3, 7-6 (19/17) victory.

Fifth seed Kiki Bertens eased aside Katerina Siniakova 6-2, 6-2, moving swiftly on from her stormy win over Sara Errani in the previous round.

Rafael Nadal charged into the French Open last 16 on Friday and took another confident stride towards equalling Roger Federer's record of 20 major titles while a crop of rising youngsters offered tantalising glimpses of their potential.

Rafael Nadal charged into the French Open last 16 on Friday and took another confident stride towards equalling Roger Federer's record of 20 major titles while a crop of rising youngsters offered tantalising glimpses of their potential. The 12-time Roland Garros champion dispatched Italian world number 74 Stefano Travaglia 6-1, 6-4, 6-0 in just 95 minutes, notching his 96th victory at the tournament. "I think today I played the best match this year at Roland Garros," said Nadal. Nadal next faces 213th-ranked American qualifier Sebastian Korda, the son of 1998 Australian Open champion and 1992 French Open runner-up Petr Korda, for a quarter-final spot. "He's my biggest idol. He's one of the reasons I play tennis," Korda said of the Spaniard. "Growing up, I named my cat Rafa after him. That says a lot about how much I love the guy." The 20-year-old Korda beat Pedro Martinez in straight sets to become the first man outside the top 200 to make the last 16 in Paris since France's Arnaud di Pasquale in 2002. Hugo Gaston, also 20, quickly became the second such lowly-ranked man in the fourth round when the world number 239 shocked 2015 champion Stan Wawrinka 2-6, 6-3, 6-3, 4-6, 6-0 in a rain-interrupted tie. Gaston goes on to play US Open winner and Austrian third seed Dominic Thiem, the runner-up to Nadal in Paris the past two years. "It's amazing for me, it's a dream. But I try to stay focused," said Gaston, the lone Frenchman remaining in the draw. "I'm feeling tired with the adrenaline rush but I still have some gas." "I'm not going to put pressure on myself and will try to play relaxed like I did today," he added. At 19, Italian teenager Jannik Sinner is the youngest player to reach the fourth round at Roland Garros since Novak Djokovic in 2006. Last year's Next Gen champion made the second week of a Grand Slam for the first time by beating Federico Coria 6-3, 7-5, 7-5. He will meet the US Open runner-up Alexander Zverev after the German sixth seed ended the run of qualifier and 2018 semi-finalist Marco Cecchinato in three sets. "I'm just trying to improve day after day," said the 75th-ranked Sinner, who is yet to drop a set in Paris. - Halep gets revenge - Top seed and title favourite Simona Halep, the 2018 champion, avenged last year's Roland Garros loss to Amanda Anisimova by thrashing the American teenager 6-0, 6-1 in only 54 minutes. The reigning Wimbledon champion made only seven unforced errors as she stretched her career-best winning run to 17 matches. "I think I played a really good match. I was very aggressive and I knew from last year I had to change something and I did that today," said Halep. "I took the game in my hands." Halep meets another 19-year-old opponent, Poland's Iga Swiatek, for a place in the quarter-finals. She dropped just one game when the pair met here in the last 16 a year ago. Halep's status as the women's frontrunner was reinforced following the withdrawal of Serena Williams, on top of the absence of world number one and defending champion Ashleigh Barty, as well as US Open winner Naomi Osaka. "I don't feel the pressure. Of course I expect from myself to play good tennis but that doesn't mean I have to win every match," said Halep. "I just want to try to take my chance every time I step on the court, and I'm not thinking about title. It's very far (off)." Thiem made surprisingly short work of Norwegian 28th seed Casper Ruud, who has won more tour-level matches on clay than anyone else this season. "In general I was super happy with my performance. I think was one of the best ones this year," said Thiem following an impressive 6-4, 6-3, 6-1 victory. Two-time quarter-finalist Elina Svitolina ensured she will stick around for the second week with a 6-4, 7-5 win over Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova, the 27th seed. Svitolina will next play home hope Caroline Garcia, who upset 16th seed Elise Mertens 1-6, 6-4, 7-5. Italy's Lorenzo Sonego edged a 36-point tiebreak against Taylor Fritz to complete a 7-6 (7/5), 6-3, 7-6 (19/17) victory. Fifth seed Kiki Bertens eased aside Katerina Siniakova 6-2, 6-2, moving swiftly on from her stormy win over Sara Errani in the previous round.

Nadal eases into French Open last 16 as new kids emerge

Rafael Nadal looks to build on a promising start to his quest to match Roger Federer's 20 Grand Slam titles at the French Open on Wednesday while Serena Williams faces a familiar foe in round two of her latest push to equal Margaret Court's all-time mark.

Top seed and women's favourite Simona Halep puts her 15-match winning streak on the line as she targets another run at a second Roland Garros crown in three years.

Nadal needs one more major to pull level with long-time rival Federer and owns an astonishing 94-2 record in Paris going back to his triumph on debut in 2005.

The Spaniard showed little trouble in handling the heavier conditions in his opening win over Egor Gerasimov at a tournament postponed four months by the coronavirus pandemic.

However, the 34-year-old is wary of an untimely slip-up having made serene progress on his return to action in Rome before running aground in the quarter-finals.&nbsp;

"Six months without playing a single tennis match is not easy," said 12-time French Open winner Nadal, who touched down in Paris without a clay title to his name for the first time.

"I said in Rome when I played the first two matches well, I said, 'Okay, don't believe things are going to be like this.'&nbsp;

"I know how difficult are the comebacks. I had to stop playing tennis for more than two months, so situation is difficult. It's normal, some up and downs."

A first-time opponent again awaits Nadal in 236th-ranked American Mackenzie McDonald, whose lone tour win this season came against Yusutaka Uchiyama at Delray Beach in February.

In the women's draw, Williams heads into another encounter with Tsvetana Pironkova after the pair squared off in the last eight of the US Open earlier this month.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Serena braces for 'long match' -</h2>

&nbsp;

Williams came from a set down in New York to beat fellow mother Pironkova, in the Bulgarian's first tournament appearance since the 2017 Wimbledon championships.

"She's playing well, but I am too," said Williams, imploring herself to play with more confidence after a slow start against Kristie Ahn in round one.

"I'm ready to play her. She'll be ready to play me. It will be a long match, she will get a lot of balls back, but so will I. I'll be ready."

Williams, seeded sixth, is still chasing an elusive 24th Slam title, but clay is her least successful surface.

She has not gone beyond the last 16 in Paris since her defeat to Garbine Muguruza in the 2016 final. Her last major came at the 2017 Australian Open while pregnant.

With defending champion Ashleigh Barty skipping the event over Covid-19 concerns, world number two Halep appears well set for a tilt at a third major.

She battles fellow Romanian Irina-Camelia Begu on Court Suzanne Lenglen, having been spared the grim weather by playing under the new retractable roof in her opener.&nbsp;

Halep has won each of her past three tournaments, resuming the interrupted season with titles on clay in Prague and Rome following her victory at Dubai in February.

US Open champion Dominic Thiem plays American qualifier Jack Sock, a former top 10 player, in the second round while 2015 French Open winner Stan Wawrinka takes on Dominik Koepfer following his mauling of Andy Murray.

Elina Svitolina faces Renata Zarazua, Mexico's first representative in the main draw of a Slam in 20 years, with Victoria Azarenka meeting Anna Karolina Schmiedlova.

Sixth seed Alexander Zverev will come up against Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the final match scheduled on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Rafael Nadal looks to build on a promising start to his quest to match Roger Federer's 20 Grand Slam titles at the French Open on Wednesday while Serena Williams faces a familiar foe in round two of her latest push to equal Margaret Court's all-time mark.

Rafael Nadal looks to build on a promising start to his quest to match Roger Federer's 20 Grand Slam titles at the French Open on Wednesday while Serena Williams faces a familiar foe in round two of her latest push to equal Margaret Court's all-time mark. Top seed and women's favourite Simona Halep puts her 15-match winning streak on the line as she targets another run at a second Roland Garros crown in three years. Nadal needs one more major to pull level with long-time rival Federer and owns an astonishing 94-2 record in Paris going back to his triumph on debut in 2005. The Spaniard showed little trouble in handling the heavier conditions in his opening win over Egor Gerasimov at a tournament postponed four months by the coronavirus pandemic. However, the 34-year-old is wary of an untimely slip-up having made serene progress on his return to action in Rome before running aground in the quarter-finals. "Six months without playing a single tennis match is not easy," said 12-time French Open winner Nadal, who touched down in Paris without a clay title to his name for the first time. "I said in Rome when I played the first two matches well, I said, 'Okay, don't believe things are going to be like this.' "I know how difficult are the comebacks. I had to stop playing tennis for more than two months, so situation is difficult. It's normal, some up and downs." A first-time opponent again awaits Nadal in 236th-ranked American Mackenzie McDonald, whose lone tour win this season came against Yusutaka Uchiyama at Delray Beach in February. In the women's draw, Williams heads into another encounter with Tsvetana Pironkova after the pair squared off in the last eight of the US Open earlier this month. - Serena braces for 'long match' - Williams came from a set down in New York to beat fellow mother Pironkova, in the Bulgarian's first tournament appearance since the 2017 Wimbledon championships. "She's playing well, but I am too," said Williams, imploring herself to play with more confidence after a slow start against Kristie Ahn in round one. "I'm ready to play her. She'll be ready to play me. It will be a long match, she will get a lot of balls back, but so will I. I'll be ready." Williams, seeded sixth, is still chasing an elusive 24th Slam title, but clay is her least successful surface. She has not gone beyond the last 16 in Paris since her defeat to Garbine Muguruza in the 2016 final. Her last major came at the 2017 Australian Open while pregnant. With defending champion Ashleigh Barty skipping the event over Covid-19 concerns, world number two Halep appears well set for a tilt at a third major. She battles fellow Romanian Irina-Camelia Begu on Court Suzanne Lenglen, having been spared the grim weather by playing under the new retractable roof in her opener. Halep has won each of her past three tournaments, resuming the interrupted season with titles on clay in Prague and Rome following her victory at Dubai in February. US Open champion Dominic Thiem plays American qualifier Jack Sock, a former top 10 player, in the second round while 2015 French Open winner Stan Wawrinka takes on Dominik Koepfer following his mauling of Andy Murray. Elina Svitolina faces Renata Zarazua, Mexico's first representative in the main draw of a Slam in 20 years, with Victoria Azarenka meeting Anna Karolina Schmiedlova. Sixth seed Alexander Zverev will come up against Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the final match scheduled on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Nadal, Serena on guard at French Open as Halep plays compatriot

French Open this year has garnered a lot of criticism after delaying their play in autumn instead of summers due to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-overcomes-patchy-french-open-start-as-thiem-aces-cilic-test-331015" hreflang="en">Serena Williams overcomes patchy French Open start as Thiem aces Cilic test</a>

Many players complained about the cold weather earlier, and now they have been complaining about the balls used during the tournament.&nbsp;

The Roland Garros switched its game balls from Babolat to Wilson balls.&nbsp;

"The ball is completely different," defending men's champion Rafael Nadal told reporters last week. "The ball is super slow and heavy. (There are) very cold, slow conditions.

"I think (it's) not a good ball to play on clay, honestly. That is my personal opinion. It's not the right ball to play on clay courts." Nadal has found it difficult to spin the ball on clay court due to chilling conditions.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shut-up-australias-kyrgios-blasts-at-wilander-over-murray-remarks-330943" hreflang="en">'Shut up': Australia's Kyrgios blasts at Wilander over Murray remarks</a>

British ace Dan Evans agreed with the Spaniard and said that some of the balls you "wouldn't give to a dog to chew."

"I think the balls are the biggest thing," he said of the challenging conditions, while also acknowledging the cold.&nbsp;

The Briton lost to Kei Nishikori in the first round on Sunday.&nbsp;

"Maybe they got it a little wrong with the balls. It's tough to get that ball to go anywhere. It's in what month, September, October? That ball is a bit too heavy, I think," he added.&nbsp;

The winner of recently-concluded American Grand Slam Dominic Theim said that the previous balls used (Babolat) during the Roland Garros was "perfect" for topspin and his "favorite ball."

However, some players like Daniil Medvedev supported the new balls as it suited his game.&nbsp;

French Open this year has garnered a lot of criticism after delaying their play in autumn instead of summers due to the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Serena Williams overcomes patchy French Open start as Thiem aces Cilic test Many players complained about the cold weather earlier, and now they have been complaining about the balls used during the tournament.

French Open this year has garnered a lot of criticism after delaying their play in autumn instead of summers due to the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Serena Williams overcomes patchy French Open start as Thiem aces Cilic test Many players complained about the cold weather earlier, and now they have been complaining about the balls used during the tournament. The Roland Garros switched its game balls from Babolat to Wilson balls. "The ball is completely different," defending men's champion Rafael Nadal told reporters last week. "The ball is super slow and heavy. (There are) very cold, slow conditions. "I think (it's) not a good ball to play on clay, honestly. That is my personal opinion. It's not the right ball to play on clay courts." Nadal has found it difficult to spin the ball on clay court due to chilling conditions. Also read: 'Shut up': Australia's Kyrgios blasts at Wilander over Murray remarks British ace Dan Evans agreed with the Spaniard and said that some of the balls you "wouldn't give to a dog to chew." "I think the balls are the biggest thing," he said of the challenging conditions, while also acknowledging the cold. The Briton lost to Kei Nishikori in the first round on Sunday. "Maybe they got it a little wrong with the balls. It's tough to get that ball to go anywhere. It's in what month, September, October? That ball is a bit too heavy, I think," he added. The winner of recently-concluded American Grand Slam Dominic Theim said that the previous balls used (Babolat) during the Roland Garros was "perfect" for topspin and his "favorite ball." However, some players like Daniil Medvedev supported the new balls as it suited his game.

'Super slow and heavy': Tennis stars lash out at balls used during French Open

Serena Williams made a slow but successful start Monday to her latest pursuit of a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title at Roland Garros while US Open winner Dominic Thiem navigated a testing first-round tie against former major champion Marin Cilic.

The American star is chasing an elusive 24th Grand Slam title to match Margaret Court's all-time mark, but clay is her least favoured surface.

An error-prone beginning from Williams left world number 102 Kristie Ahn serving for the first set before the three-time Roland Garros champion prevailed 7-6 (7/2), 6-0.

Williams, playing at the French Open for the 18th time, dropped serve twice as Ahn moved 5-4 ahead in the opener in a rematch of their first-round encounter at Flushing Meadows.

But the sixth seed forced a tie-break that she sealed with an ace after a 74-minute slog before charging to an ultimately comfortable victory.

"She played very well in the first set, it wasn't easy for me and she hit a lot of winners," said Williams. "It was important for me to stay focused."

Williams, seeded sixth here, has not gone beyond the last 16 in Paris since her defeat to Garbine Muguruza in the 2016 final. Her last major came at the 2017 Australian Open while pregnant.

Meanwhile Thiem, the runner-up to Rafael Nadal in Paris the past two years, defeated 2014 US Open champion Cilic 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 in their second meeting at a major this month.

"My level was good. I was very happy with the way I played from the beginning to the end basically," said Thiem.

Having captured his maiden Slam in New York, Thiem is trying to become the only man in the Open era to win his first two majors at successive tournaments.

A steady display from Thiem saw the Austrian break Cilic six times under the roof of Court Philippe Chatrier on another gloomy day at Roland Garros, pushed back from its customary May-June slot due to the coronavirus pandemic.

"I really love this tournament, it's by far my best Grand Slam tournament so far," said Thiem, who plays American qualifier Jack Sock in the second round.

"I'm from Austria so I know how it is to play in these cold conditions. I love it when it's not too fast. I felt well from the first moment I came here."

<h2>Nadal faces 'most difficult' defence -</h2>

Nadal, on a mission to match Roger Federer's record of 20 major titles, arrives at the French Open short of preparation and unhappy with the tournament's choice of new balls.

"The conditions here are probably the most difficult conditions for me ever at Roland Garros for so many different facts," said Nadal, who won the first of his 12 French Open titles in 2005.

"The ball is completely different. It is super slow, heavy. It's also very cold, slow conditions."

Nadal has been beaten just twice in 95 matches at the tournament but now must adjust to the unusual autumnal chill in Paris.&nbsp;

The heavier atmosphere could negate some of Nadal's lethal topspin as he heads into the event without a clay title under his belt for the first time.

However a first-time meeting with Egor Gerasimov, the world number 83 from Belarus, is unlikely to trouble him.

The competition began Sunday amid steady drizzle in temperatures struggling to reach 10 degrees (50F), conditions branded "ridiculous" by US Open finalist Victoria Azarenka. &nbsp;

Play on Monday was initially delayed by more persistent rain. Twice Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova defeated Oceane Dodin 6-3, 7-5 in the only match to start on time under the new roof on Court Philippe Chatrier.&nbsp;

Dutch fifth seed Kiki Bertens recovered from a poor start once conditions improved to overhaul 112th-ranked Ukrainian Katarina Zavatska 2-6, 6-2, 6-0.

Third seed Elina Svitolina scrapped past Varvara Gracheva of Russia 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 while last year's runner-up Marketa Vondrousova was bundled out 6-1, 6-2 by 2018 junior champion Iga Swiatek.

Overall prize money at this year's event is down 11 percent at 14,491,000 euros, but players beaten in the first round will receive 60,000 euros -- a 30 percent increase compared to 2019.&nbsp;

Serena Williams made a slow but successful start Monday to her latest pursuit of a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title at Roland Garros while US Open winner Dominic Thiem navigated a testing first-round tie against former major champion Marin Cilic.

Serena Williams made a slow but successful start Monday to her latest pursuit of a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title at Roland Garros while US Open winner Dominic Thiem navigated a testing first-round tie against former major champion Marin Cilic. The American star is chasing an elusive 24th Grand Slam title to match Margaret Court's all-time mark, but clay is her least favoured surface. An error-prone beginning from Williams left world number 102 Kristie Ahn serving for the first set before the three-time Roland Garros champion prevailed 7-6 (7/2), 6-0. Williams, playing at the French Open for the 18th time, dropped serve twice as Ahn moved 5-4 ahead in the opener in a rematch of their first-round encounter at Flushing Meadows. But the sixth seed forced a tie-break that she sealed with an ace after a 74-minute slog before charging to an ultimately comfortable victory. "She played very well in the first set, it wasn't easy for me and she hit a lot of winners," said Williams. "It was important for me to stay focused." Williams, seeded sixth here, has not gone beyond the last 16 in Paris since her defeat to Garbine Muguruza in the 2016 final. Her last major came at the 2017 Australian Open while pregnant. Meanwhile Thiem, the runner-up to Rafael Nadal in Paris the past two years, defeated 2014 US Open champion Cilic 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 in their second meeting at a major this month. "My level was good. I was very happy with the way I played from the beginning to the end basically," said Thiem. Having captured his maiden Slam in New York, Thiem is trying to become the only man in the Open era to win his first two majors at successive tournaments. A steady display from Thiem saw the Austrian break Cilic six times under the roof of Court Philippe Chatrier on another gloomy day at Roland Garros, pushed back from its customary May-June slot due to the coronavirus pandemic. "I really love this tournament, it's by far my best Grand Slam tournament so far," said Thiem, who plays American qualifier Jack Sock in the second round. "I'm from Austria so I know how it is to play in these cold conditions. I love it when it's not too fast. I felt well from the first moment I came here." Nadal faces 'most difficult' defence - Nadal, on a mission to match Roger Federer's record of 20 major titles, arrives at the French Open short of preparation and unhappy with the tournament's choice of new balls. "The conditions here are probably the most difficult conditions for me ever at Roland Garros for so many different facts," said Nadal, who won the first of his 12 French Open titles in 2005. "The ball is completely different. It is super slow, heavy. It's also very cold, slow conditions." Nadal has been beaten just twice in 95 matches at the tournament but now must adjust to the unusual autumnal chill in Paris. The heavier atmosphere could negate some of Nadal's lethal topspin as he heads into the event without a clay title under his belt for the first time. However a first-time meeting with Egor Gerasimov, the world number 83 from Belarus, is unlikely to trouble him. The competition began Sunday amid steady drizzle in temperatures struggling to reach 10 degrees (50F), conditions branded "ridiculous" by US Open finalist Victoria Azarenka. Play on Monday was initially delayed by more persistent rain. Twice Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova defeated Oceane Dodin 6-3, 7-5 in the only match to start on time under the new roof on Court Philippe Chatrier. Dutch fifth seed Kiki Bertens recovered from a poor start once conditions improved to overhaul 112th-ranked Ukrainian Katarina Zavatska 2-6, 6-2, 6-0. Third seed Elina Svitolina scrapped past Varvara Gracheva of Russia 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 while last year's runner-up Marketa Vondrousova was bundled out 6-1, 6-2 by 2018 junior champion Iga Swiatek. Overall prize money at this year's event is down 11 percent at 14,491,000 euros, but players beaten in the first round will receive 60,000 euros -- a 30 percent increase compared to 2019.

Serena Williams overcomes patchy French Open start as Thiem aces Cilic test

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