Defending champion Rafael Nadal continued to chomp his way through the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-garbine-muguruza-canters-into-third-round-beating-johanna-larsson-222506">French Open</a> draw on Wednesday and Roger Federer also maintained his smooth progress into the third round.

It felt like a case of deja vu for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-rafael-nadal-enters-third-round-after-defeating-yannick-maden-222544">Spaniard Nadal</a>, the second seed, as for the second match running he dispatched a German qualifier named Yannick in brutal fashion.

After beating Yannick Hanfmann for the loss off six games in round one, he conceded seven against Yannick Maden in a 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 win on Court Suzanne Lenglen, crunching 43 winners in the process.

Things might get more tricky next when he faces Belgium's David Goffin -&nbsp;but the 11-times champion is already on a roll.

"We know that he's at home at the French Open. He's the king," 27th seed Goffin said.

Third seed Federer also played an obscure German, 25-year-old lucky loser Oscar Otte, ranked 144th in the world.

Federer, wearing pale brown shorts, turned the screw just enough, breaking serve at a crucial juncture of each set for a clinical, yet still an eye-catching 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 victory.

After missing the last three French Opens he has found the groove straight away with six near-perfect sets.

"I must say I feel really good, you know, considering I haven't played here in that long," the 37-year-old said.

The women's draw lost another big name as Kiki Bertens, the Dutch fourth seed, was forced to retire early on against Viktoria Kuzmova, saying she had been up all night vomiting.

She joined fifth seed Angelique Kerber and 13th seed Caroline Wozniacki and 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko through the exit door.

There were no alarms for 2016 champion Garbine Muguruza who beat Johanna Larsson to set up a clash with ninth seed Elina Svitolina who enjoyed a walkover against Kateryna Kozlova.

Last year's runner-up Sloane Stephens also reached the third round, beating Sara Sorribes Tormo 6-1 7-6(3).

Marin Cilic's hopes of completing his set of Grand Slam finals came to an abrupt end as the 11th seed lost a four-hour 23-minute five-setter against Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov.

That was one of two matches that in previous years would have graced the latter stages of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-croatias-ivo-karlovic-becomes-oldest-man-to-win-match-at-roland-garros-in-last-46-years-222425">Grand Slam</a>, the other one seeing Japan's Kei Nishikori beat home favourite Jo-Wilfried Tsonga after losing the opening set.

Former world number three Dimitrov, unseeded this year, will have to be at his best again in the third round where he faces 2015 champion Stan Wawrinka.

The Swiss 24th seed was in scintillating form to beat Chile's Cristian Garin, second on the list for claycourt wins this year, 6-1, 6-4, 6-0.

Greek sixth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas, tipped as the man most likely to provide a breakthrough for the next generation this fortnight battled past Bolivian Hugo Dellien.

French hopes were boosted with youngster Corentin Moutet posting an impressive win over 19th seed Guido Pella, while Benoit Paire beat compatriot Pierre-Hugues Herbert 11-9 in the fifth set of a thriller.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal continued to chomp his way through the French Open draw on Wednesday and Roger Federer also maintained his smooth progress into the third round.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal continued to chomp his way through the French Open draw on Wednesday and Roger Federer also maintained his smooth progress into the third round. It felt like a case of deja vu for Spaniard Nadal, the second seed, as for the second match running he dispatched a German qualifier named Yannick in brutal fashion. After beating Yannick Hanfmann for the loss off six games in round one, he conceded seven against Yannick Maden in a 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 win on Court Suzanne Lenglen, crunching 43 winners in the process. Things might get more tricky next when he faces Belgium's David Goffin - but the 11-times champion is already on a roll. "We know that he's at home at the French Open. He's the king," 27th seed Goffin said. Third seed Federer also played an obscure German, 25-year-old lucky loser Oscar Otte, ranked 144th in the world. Federer, wearing pale brown shorts, turned the screw just enough, breaking serve at a crucial juncture of each set for a clinical, yet still an eye-catching 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 victory. After missing the last three French Opens he has found the groove straight away with six near-perfect sets. "I must say I feel really good, you know, considering I haven't played here in that long," the 37-year-old said. The women's draw lost another big name as Kiki Bertens, the Dutch fourth seed, was forced to retire early on against Viktoria Kuzmova, saying she had been up all night vomiting. She joined fifth seed Angelique Kerber and 13th seed Caroline Wozniacki and 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko through the exit door. There were no alarms for 2016 champion Garbine Muguruza who beat Johanna Larsson to set up a clash with ninth seed Elina Svitolina who enjoyed a walkover against Kateryna Kozlova. Last year's runner-up Sloane Stephens also reached the third round, beating Sara Sorribes Tormo 6-1 7-6(3). Marin Cilic's hopes of completing his set of Grand Slam finals came to an abrupt end as the 11th seed lost a four-hour 23-minute five-setter against Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov. That was one of two matches that in previous years would have graced the latter stages of a Grand Slam, the other one seeing Japan's Kei Nishikori beat home favourite Jo-Wilfried Tsonga after losing the opening set. Former world number three Dimitrov, unseeded this year, will have to be at his best again in the third round where he faces 2015 champion Stan Wawrinka. The Swiss 24th seed was in scintillating form to beat Chile's Cristian Garin, second on the list for claycourt wins this year, 6-1, 6-4, 6-0. Greek sixth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas, tipped as the man most likely to provide a breakthrough for the next generation this fortnight battled past Bolivian Hugo Dellien. French hopes were boosted with youngster Corentin Moutet posting an impressive win over 19th seed Guido Pella, while Benoit Paire beat compatriot Pierre-Hugues Herbert 11-9 in the fifth set of a thriller.

French Open: No sweat for Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer as they advance into third round, Bertens pulls out

For the second match running world number one <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-top-seed-naomi-osaka-flirts-with-early-exit-victoria-azarenka-and-del-potro-also-struggle-222421&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiajZvTqMPiAhXV8HMBHeh0A2IQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1PbOLXmuS2pxokxTj-nwby">Naomi Osaka</a> stared at an early French Open exit but once again she fought like a champion, recovering from a woeful start to beat Victoria Azarenka 4-6, 7-5, 6-3.

The 21-year-old Japanese lost the first four games against a fired-up former world number one but reacted superbly to claw herself back and claim a 16th successive Grand Slam match win.

She is aiming to win a third successive major having bagged her first two at the US&nbsp;and Australian Opens but she is doing it the hard way in Paris.

Azarenka seemed poised to follow up her first-round win over 2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko when she moved 4-2 ahead in the second set playing with the kind of control and aggression that took her to two Australian Open triumphs.

But <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/naomi-osaka-pulls-out-of-italian-open-due-to-right-thumb-injury-219451&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiajZvTqMPiAhXV8HMBHeh0A2IQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0uV0vjo0tycUhK717zgA3u">Osaka </a>flicked a switch and began pummelling heavy groundstrokes that kept Azarenka at full stretch.

Osaka piled on the pressure when Azarenka served at 5-6 but squandered three set points before finally levelling the match with a screaming backhand winner.

She raced into a 5-1 lead in the decider and although Azarenka grabbed the next two games, Osaka kept her focus to reach the third round.

For the second match running world number one Naomi Osaka stared at an early French Open exit but once again she fought like a champion, recovering from a woeful start to beat Victoria Azarenka 4-6, 7-5, 6-3.

For the second match running world number one Naomi Osaka stared at an early French Open exit but once again she fought like a champion, recovering from a woeful start to beat Victoria Azarenka 4-6, 7-5, 6-3. The 21-year-old Japanese lost the first four games against a fired-up former world number one but reacted superbly to claw herself back and claim a 16th successive Grand Slam match win. She is aiming to win a third successive major having bagged her first two at the US and Australian Opens but she is doing it the hard way in Paris. Azarenka seemed poised to follow up her first-round win over 2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko when she moved 4-2 ahead in the second set playing with the kind of control and aggression that took her to two Australian Open triumphs. But Osaka flicked a switch and began pummelling heavy groundstrokes that kept Azarenka at full stretch. Osaka piled on the pressure when Azarenka served at 5-6 but squandered three set points before finally levelling the match with a screaming backhand winner. She raced into a 5-1 lead in the decider and although Azarenka grabbed the next two games, Osaka kept her focus to reach the third round.

French Open: Naomi Osaka survives again to battle past Victoria Azarenka into third round

Austrian Dominic Thiem overcame a tough test to reach the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-no-sweat-for-rafael-nadal-and-roger-federer-as-they-advance-into-third-round-bertens-pulls-out-222652"> French Open</a> third round with a 6-3, 6-7(6), 6-3, 7-5 win over defiant Kazakh Alexander Bublik on Court Philippe Chatrier on Thursday.

Fourth seed Thiem, who reached the final at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-rafael-nadal-enters-third-round-after-defeating-yannick-maden-222544">Roland Garros</a> last year, had to use his full range of shots to overcome 91st ranked Bublik, who put up a fight against the 'prince of clay'.

The fancied Thiem, who is looking for his first Grand Slam success, broke Bublik in the second game of the first set and, while the Kazakh produced a cheeky underarm serve that helped him hold for 4-2, he did not threaten the Austrian's serve.

However, the 25-year-old Thiem was broken in the fourth game of the second set and, despite battling back with a break of his own at 5-3 down, the Austrian was outfoxed in the tiebreak.

Thiem was clearly in a contest against the tricky Bublik, who was making his Roland Garros debut at 21, and had to dig deep before breaking in the eighth game and taking the third.

Bublik never gave up in the first meeting between the pair and broke in the second game of the fourth before squandering two set points at 5-2.

Thiem sensed his chance and took the next five games to wrap up victory with an exquisite drop shot.

Austrian Dominic Thiem overcame a tough test to reach the French Open third round with a 6-3, 6-7(6), 6-3, 7-5 win over defiant Kazakh Alexander Bublik on Court Philippe Chatrier on Thursday.

Austrian Dominic Thiem overcame a tough test to reach the French Open third round with a 6-3, 6-7(6), 6-3, 7-5 win over defiant Kazakh Alexander Bublik on Court Philippe Chatrier on Thursday. Fourth seed Thiem, who reached the final at Roland Garros last year, had to use his full range of shots to overcome 91st ranked Bublik, who put up a fight against the 'prince of clay'. The fancied Thiem, who is looking for his first Grand Slam success, broke Bublik in the second game of the first set and, while the Kazakh produced a cheeky underarm serve that helped him hold for 4-2, he did not threaten the Austrian's serve. However, the 25-year-old Thiem was broken in the fourth game of the second set and, despite battling back with a break of his own at 5-3 down, the Austrian was outfoxed in the tiebreak. Thiem was clearly in a contest against the tricky Bublik, who was making his Roland Garros debut at 21, and had to dig deep before breaking in the eighth game and taking the third. Bublik never gave up in the first meeting between the pair and broke in the second game of the fourth before squandering two set points at 5-2. Thiem sensed his chance and took the next five games to wrap up victory with an exquisite drop shot.

French Open: Dominic Thiem battles through to third round defeating Alexander Bublik

Naomi Osaka's quest for a third consecutive Grand Slam title almost came to an abrupt end on Tuesday as a number of top players struggled to book their spots in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-alexander-zverev-defeats-john-millman-to-enter-second-round-222336">second round of the French Open.</a>

On a windy and chilly day at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-french-open-champion-jelena-ostapenko-blows-out-in-first-round-again-222347">Roland Garros</a>, world number one Osaka, who won the US&nbsp;and the Australian Opens, lost the opening set to love against Slovakian Anna Karolina Schmiedlova before rallying back for a 0-6, 7-6(4), 6-1 victory.

Defending champion Simona Halep, Osaka's potential semi-final opponent, lost her way in the second set against Australian Ajla Tomljanovic in a 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 victory on a windswept Court Philippe Chatrier.

In the men's draw, German fifth seed Alexander Zverev was also pegged back during his match against Australian John Millman and needed five sets to progress after winning the first two.

Last year's semi-finalist Juan Martin Del Potro also huffed and puffed into round two with a four-set win against Nicolas Jarry of Chile.

Victoria Azarenka avoided the fate of fellow former world number ones Angelique Kerber and Caroline Wozniacki, who were knocked out in the first round, when she beat 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko in straight sets.

Osaka had the biggest scare, however, as spots of rain and swirling winds disrupted her game with the Japanese failing to put a mark on the scoreboard in the first set.

Schmiedlova twice served for the match, only for Osaka to raise her game and force the contest into a decisive third set during which her variety of shots and power proved too much to handle for the world number 90.

Croatia's Ivo Karlovic became the oldest man to win a match at the French Open for 46 years as he beat Spain's fellow veteran Feliciano Lopez in the first round.

Karlovic, who turned 40 in February, won a match featuring players with a combined age of 77 -&nbsp;the oldest in a Grand Slam in the professional era.

He became the oldest male player to win a Grand Slam match since Ken Rosewall, aged 44, did so at the 1978 Australian Open.

Naomi Osaka's quest for a third consecutive Grand Slam title almost came to an abrupt end on Tuesday as a number of top players struggled to book their spots in the second round of the French Open.

Naomi Osaka's quest for a third consecutive Grand Slam title almost came to an abrupt end on Tuesday as a number of top players struggled to book their spots in the second round of the French Open. On a windy and chilly day at Roland Garros, world number one Osaka, who won the US and the Australian Opens, lost the opening set to love against Slovakian Anna Karolina Schmiedlova before rallying back for a 0-6, 7-6(4), 6-1 victory. Defending champion Simona Halep, Osaka's potential semi-final opponent, lost her way in the second set against Australian Ajla Tomljanovic in a 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 victory on a windswept Court Philippe Chatrier. In the men's draw, German fifth seed Alexander Zverev was also pegged back during his match against Australian John Millman and needed five sets to progress after winning the first two. Last year's semi-finalist Juan Martin Del Potro also huffed and puffed into round two with a four-set win against Nicolas Jarry of Chile. Victoria Azarenka avoided the fate of fellow former world number ones Angelique Kerber and Caroline Wozniacki, who were knocked out in the first round, when she beat 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko in straight sets. Osaka had the biggest scare, however, as spots of rain and swirling winds disrupted her game with the Japanese failing to put a mark on the scoreboard in the first set. Schmiedlova twice served for the match, only for Osaka to raise her game and force the contest into a decisive third set during which her variety of shots and power proved too much to handle for the world number 90. Croatia's Ivo Karlovic became the oldest man to win a match at the French Open for 46 years as he beat Spain's fellow veteran Feliciano Lopez in the first round. Karlovic, who turned 40 in February, won a match featuring players with a combined age of 77 - the oldest in a Grand Slam in the professional era. He became the oldest male player to win a Grand Slam match since Ken Rosewall, aged 44, did so at the 1978 Australian Open.

French Open: Top seed Naomi Osaka flirts with early exit, Victoria Azarenka and Del Potro also struggle

Croatia's Ivo Karlovic became the oldest man to win a match at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-top-seed-naomi-osaka-flirts-with-early-exit-victoria-azarenka-and-del-potro-also-struggle-222421">French Open</a> for 46 years on Tuesday as he beat Spain's fellow veteran Feliciano Lopez in a first-round duel.

Karlovic, who turned 40 in February, won 7-6(4), 7-5, 6-7(7), 7-5 in a match featuring players with a combined age of 77 - the oldest in a Grand Slam in the professional era.

Karlovic became the oldest man to win at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-alexander-zverev-defeats-john-millman-to-enter-second-round-222336">Roland Garros</a> since Torben Ulrich in 1973 at the age of 44.

He is also the oldest male player to win a Grand Slam match since Ken Rosewall, also 44, did so at the 1978 Australian Open.

The last player to contest a Grand Slam singles match having turned 40 was American Jimmy Connors at the US&nbsp;Open in 1992.

Croatian giant Karlovic fired down 35 aces on his way to a second-round clash against Australian youngster Jordan Thompson.

The evergreen Croat made light of his age to outlast left-hander Lopez.

"It means a lot. Even though it's in the record books as the oldest one, at least it's in the record books, so I like it," Karlovic said of playing his fellow long-survivor.

"I was out for almost two months, so I am really happy that I was able to win today,"&nbsp;Karlovic said.

Karlovic, ranked 94, had decided against playing any claycourt tournaments in the build-up to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-french-open-champion-jelena-ostapenko-blows-out-in-first-round-again-222347">Roland Garros</a> where he has never gone past the third round.

But there was nothing rusty about his serve, not giving Lopez a sniff of a break in the opening two sets.

He took the first set on a tiebreak but did not engineer a breakpoint on the Lopez serve until pouncing with his opponent 5-6 down in the second set.

Almost inevitably the third set went to another tiebreak and when Lopez missed a routine volley at 5-5 it handed Karlovic a match point, only for him to be denied by a lucky backhand return that left him floundering at the net.

A fifth set loomed when Lopez led 5-2 in the fourth set but Karlovic rattled off five straight games to move through.

In a performance of old-school skills, he won 65 points at the net.

"Right now I'm just happy with any match that I win. Even if it's against older guys or kids, whatever. I just like to win,"&nbsp;Karlovic said.

Croatia's Ivo Karlovic became the oldest man to win a match at the French Open for 46 years on Tuesday as he beat Spain's fellow veteran Feliciano Lopez in a first-round duel.

Croatia's Ivo Karlovic became the oldest man to win a match at the French Open for 46 years on Tuesday as he beat Spain's fellow veteran Feliciano Lopez in a first-round duel. Karlovic, who turned 40 in February, won 7-6(4), 7-5, 6-7(7), 7-5 in a match featuring players with a combined age of 77 - the oldest in a Grand Slam in the professional era. Karlovic became the oldest man to win at Roland Garros since Torben Ulrich in 1973 at the age of 44. He is also the oldest male player to win a Grand Slam match since Ken Rosewall, also 44, did so at the 1978 Australian Open. The last player to contest a Grand Slam singles match having turned 40 was American Jimmy Connors at the US Open in 1992. Croatian giant Karlovic fired down 35 aces on his way to a second-round clash against Australian youngster Jordan Thompson. The evergreen Croat made light of his age to outlast left-hander Lopez. "It means a lot. Even though it's in the record books as the oldest one, at least it's in the record books, so I like it," Karlovic said of playing his fellow long-survivor. "I was out for almost two months, so I am really happy that I was able to win today," Karlovic said. Karlovic, ranked 94, had decided against playing any claycourt tournaments in the build-up to Roland Garros where he has never gone past the third round. But there was nothing rusty about his serve, not giving Lopez a sniff of a break in the opening two sets. He took the first set on a tiebreak but did not engineer a breakpoint on the Lopez serve until pouncing with his opponent 5-6 down in the second set. Almost inevitably the third set went to another tiebreak and when Lopez missed a routine volley at 5-5 it handed Karlovic a match point, only for him to be denied by a lucky backhand return that left him floundering at the net. A fifth set loomed when Lopez led 5-2 in the fourth set but Karlovic rattled off five straight games to move through. In a performance of old-school skills, he won 65 points at the net. "Right now I'm just happy with any match that I win. Even if it's against older guys or kids, whatever. I just like to win," Karlovic said.

French Open: Croatia's Ivo Karlovic becomes oldest man to win match at Roland Garros in last 46 years

Rafael Nadal powered into the French Open third round on Wednesday with a 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 victory over German qualifier Yannick Maden to continue his bid for a 12th Roland Garros title.

The 17-time Grand Slam champion was in dominant form for the majority of the match and will play Belgian 27th seed David Goffin for a place in the second week.

Nadal's win-loss record at the French Open now reads an astounding 88-2.

"He (Maden) is a good player. He had already won four matches so was full of confidence," he said. "For me it was an important victory."

The 32-year-old Spaniard wasted little time in wrapping up the first two sets on Court Suzanne Lenglen.

World number 114 Maden may have briefly allowed himself to dream of an outrageous upset when he broke twice to level at 3-3 and then 4-4 in the third set, but Nadal put him back in his place with two quick games to seal victory.

Nadal appears to be hitting form at just the right time, after following three consecutive semi-final defeats on clay with the Italian Open title before arriving in Paris.

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👋 to you too, Rafa. 
 
The Spaniard takes on qualifier Yannick Maden next on Lenglen...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG19</a> <a href="https://t.co/CtGAbwhqbM">pic.twitter.com/CtGAbwhqbM</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1133683087525777408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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He finished the match with 43 winners against just 23 unforced errors as Maden simply could not live with his illustrious opponent.

Rafael Nadal powered into the French Open third round on Wednesday with a 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 victory over German qualifier Yannick Maden to continue his bid for a 12th Roland Garros title.

Rafael Nadal powered into the French Open third round on Wednesday with a 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 victory over German qualifier Yannick Maden to continue his bid for a 12th Roland Garros title. The 17-time Grand Slam champion was in dominant form for the majority of the match and will play Belgian 27th seed David Goffin for a place in the second week. Nadal's win-loss record at the French Open now reads an astounding 88-2. "He (Maden) is a good player. He had already won four matches so was full of confidence," he said. "For me it was an important victory." The 32-year-old Spaniard wasted little time in wrapping up the first two sets on Court Suzanne Lenglen. World number 114 Maden may have briefly allowed himself to dream of an outrageous upset when he broke twice to level at 3-3 and then 4-4 in the third set, but Nadal put him back in his place with two quick games to seal victory. Nadal appears to be hitting form at just the right time, after following three consecutive semi-final defeats on clay with the Italian Open title before arriving in Paris. 👋 to you too, Rafa. The Spaniard takes on qualifier Yannick Maden next on Lenglen...#RG19 pic.twitter.com/CtGAbwhqbM — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 29, 2019 × He finished the match with 43 winners against just 23 unforced errors as Maden simply could not live with his illustrious opponent.

French Open: Rafael Nadal enters third round after defeating Yannick Maden

Former champion Garbine Muguruza cantered into the third round of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-top-seed-naomi-osaka-flirts-with-early-exit-victoria-azarenka-and-del-potro-also-struggle-222421">French Open</a> with a routine 6-4, 6-1 victory against Swede Johanna Larsson on Wednesday.

The Spaniard seeded 19th, was kept on her toes in the opening set before motoring on in the second on Court Suzanne Lenglen.

Muguruza, who lifted the Suzanne Lenglen Cup in 2016, relied on her booming forehand throughout and wrapped it up when Larsson netted a service return.

"I'm very happy, it's another win in a Grand Slam. It's a special tournament for me," the 25-year-old, who also won Wimbledon in 2017, told a courtside interviewer.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/GarbiMuguruza?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GarbiMuguruza</a> ne perd pas de temps. 
 
L’ex No.1 mondiale est la première à se qualifier pour le 3e tour de Roland-Garros grâce à une victoire sur Johanna Larsson 6-4, 6-1. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG19</a> <a href="https://t.co/18LuHsP6Uf">pic.twitter.com/18LuHsP6Uf</a>
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She will face Elina Svitolina after the ninth seed advanced without hitting a ball on Wednesday when her opponent, fellow Ukrainian Kateryna Kozlova, withdrew from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-alexander-zverev-defeats-john-millman-to-enter-second-round-222336">tournament </a>due to intercostal pain.

Former champion Garbine Muguruza cantered into the third round of the French Open with a routine 6-4, 6-1 victory against Swede Johanna Larsson on Wednesday. The Spaniard seeded 19th, was kept on her toes in the opening set before motoring on in the second on Court Suzanne Lenglen.

Former champion Garbine Muguruza cantered into the third round of the French Open with a routine 6-4, 6-1 victory against Swede Johanna Larsson on Wednesday. The Spaniard seeded 19th, was kept on her toes in the opening set before motoring on in the second on Court Suzanne Lenglen. Muguruza, who lifted the Suzanne Lenglen Cup in 2016, relied on her booming forehand throughout and wrapped it up when Larsson netted a service return. "I'm very happy, it's another win in a Grand Slam. It's a special tournament for me," the 25-year-old, who also won Wimbledon in 2017, told a courtside interviewer. .@GarbiMuguruza ne perd pas de temps. L’ex No.1 mondiale est la première à se qualifier pour le 3e tour de Roland-Garros grâce à une victoire sur Johanna Larsson 6-4, 6-1. #RG19 pic.twitter.com/18LuHsP6Uf — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 29, 2019 × She will face Elina Svitolina after the ninth seed advanced without hitting a ball on Wednesday when her opponent, fellow Ukrainian Kateryna Kozlova, withdrew from the tournament due to intercostal pain.

French Open: Garbine Muguruza canters into third round after defeating Johanna Larsson

Former world number one Serena Williams entered the second round of French Open after she recovered from a poor first set to win 2-6, 6-1, 6-0 on Monday.&nbsp;

More than her performance, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-reveals-reason-of-wearing-superhero-like-black-catsuit-140967">Serena's dress made headlines</a> at the Roland Garros as she chose a bold outfit for her first-round match against Russia’s Vitalia Diatchenko.&nbsp;

Serena wore the Nike-backed black-and-white cape when she entered the court and when she removed it, a black and white zebra-stripe print dress was revealed, split at one thigh.&nbsp;

On her cape, the legend of 'mother, champion, queen, goddess' was written in French.&nbsp;

"It was just to remind everyone that they can be champions and are queens. So I love that about it," she said of her 2019 dress and cape.

Lat year, Serena had caused a stir at the French Open with her Black Panther catsuit, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-to-ban-serena-williams-superhero-like-black-catsuit-161409">which was subsequently banned</a>.&nbsp;

Roland Garros chiefs had said that the outfit that Serena wore will not be accepted they also described the outfit as "going too far".&nbsp;

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Let the Roland Garros begin. Here is my French Open look designed by <a href="https://twitter.com/virgilabloh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@virgilabloh</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/Nike?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Nike</a>. <a href="https://t.co/niiyqoI94m">pic.twitter.com/niiyqoI94m</a>
— Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) <a href="https://twitter.com/serenawilliams/status/1132633035684421632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"You know, I have been dealing with a lot, and then I just got nervous out there and I stopped moving my feet.&nbsp;

"There were like concrete blocks on my feet. I was, like, 'You gotta do something'," said Serena.&nbsp;

Former world number one Serena Williams entered the second round of French Open after she recovered from a poor first set to win 2-6, 6-1, 6-0 on Monday. More than her performance, Serena's dress made headlines at the Roland Garros as she chose a bold outfit for her first-round match against Russia’s Vitalia Diatchenko.

Former world number one Serena Williams entered the second round of French Open after she recovered from a poor first set to win 2-6, 6-1, 6-0 on Monday. More than her performance, Serena's dress made headlines at the Roland Garros as she chose a bold outfit for her first-round match against Russia’s Vitalia Diatchenko. Serena wore the Nike-backed black-and-white cape when she entered the court and when she removed it, a black and white zebra-stripe print dress was revealed, split at one thigh. On her cape, the legend of 'mother, champion, queen, goddess' was written in French. "It was just to remind everyone that they can be champions and are queens. So I love that about it," she said of her 2019 dress and cape. Lat year, Serena had caused a stir at the French Open with her Black Panther catsuit, which was subsequently banned. Roland Garros chiefs had said that the outfit that Serena wore will not be accepted they also described the outfit as "going too far". Let the Roland Garros begin. Here is my French Open look designed by @virgilabloh and @Nike. pic.twitter.com/niiyqoI94m — Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) May 26, 2019 × "You know, I have been dealing with a lot, and then I just got nervous out there and I stopped moving my feet. "There were like concrete blocks on my feet. I was, like, 'You gotta do something'," said Serena.

Serena Williams unveils new French Open outfit

Top seed <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-the-main-favourite-says-novak-djokovic-about-rafael-nadal-ahead-of-french-open-221579&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjatYLNwb3iAhUs63MBHTkwAqUQFjAAegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0-ggrkO6FsqfmybXVQs9wX">Novak Djokovic</a> might be out of pocket after trashing the floor of a Roland Garros gym but there was little else troubling the Serb after he opened his French Open bid on Monday by dismantling Poland`s Hubert Hurkacz.

The 32-year-old, bidding for a second Roland Garros title and to become the first man in the professional era to hold all four Grand Slam titles on two separate occasions, mixed power and precision in equal measure to win 6-4, 6-2, 6-2.

Reigning champion Rafael Nadal, the man most likely to block Djokovic's path to a second "Nole Slam", had earlier launched his bid for a 12th title on the Parisian clay in sublime style.

But <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-wins-third-madrid-title-and-33rd-masters-218214&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjatYLNwb3iAhUs63MBHTkwAqUQFjACegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0woI3W_urGYr3Md9DW_5z6">Djokovic</a> more than matched the Spaniard's display with a near faultless performance in the afternoon sunshine on Court Philippe Chatrier to seal a 22nd consecutive win in Grand Slam play since losing in the quarter-finals here last year.

On Friday Djokovic posted a video after the medicine ball he was working out on went through a wooden floor.

"I probably will," Djokovic told reporters when asked if he had received a repair bill.

"The damage was pretty big, I must say. You know, huge muscles that I possess, it's kind of expected I make the big hole like that,'' Novak said.

"I just swing with the ball quite hard in front of me, kind of to warm up the upper body, and after a second throw, I heard a crack. The wooden floor completely collapsed under. They fixed it in less than a day. Next day it wasn't there. But the next day I was doing it on a concrete wall and concrete steps. I learned my lesson," Djokovic added.

Djokovic is bidding for his second title at Roland Garros having beaten Andy Murray in 2016 to hold all four Slams together and match Rod Laver's 1969 feat.

Since his first, the French Open has undergone a huge makeover and Djokovic said he is impressed with the revamp of Chatrier, hinting that it could give him a subtle advantage.

"Very nice. Great job, Roland Garros, for sure, to make this kind of renovation in less than 12 months is really impressive.&nbsp;It's a pleasure to play in the new court. It's different. It's a different feeling,'' he told reporters.

"It looks different, obviously, and feels a bit different. Feels a little bit more like indoor, which I like," Djokovic added.

Djokovic broke serve in the opening game on his way to taking the opening set in routine fashion and the only blip was when he dropped serve at 4-1 in the second set.

The match was more or less in the bag by then, however, and Djokovic cantered to victory to set up a second-round clash with Swiss lucky loser Laaksonen.

Djokovic has prior experience in needing a French Open title to win four Grand Slams in a row, although this time perhaps there is less pressure as he already triumphed on the clay.

''The routine will be the same though. I just need to be in my lockdown, so to say, mentally, and just do things that have worked for me in the past," he said.

Top seed Novak Djokovic might be out of pocket after trashing the floor of a Roland Garros gym but there was little else troubling the Serb after he opened his French Open bid on Monday by dismantling Poland`s Hubert Hurkacz.

Top seed Novak Djokovic might be out of pocket after trashing the floor of a Roland Garros gym but there was little else troubling the Serb after he opened his French Open bid on Monday by dismantling Poland`s Hubert Hurkacz. The 32-year-old, bidding for a second Roland Garros title and to become the first man in the professional era to hold all four Grand Slam titles on two separate occasions, mixed power and precision in equal measure to win 6-4, 6-2, 6-2. Reigning champion Rafael Nadal, the man most likely to block Djokovic's path to a second "Nole Slam", had earlier launched his bid for a 12th title on the Parisian clay in sublime style. But Djokovic more than matched the Spaniard's display with a near faultless performance in the afternoon sunshine on Court Philippe Chatrier to seal a 22nd consecutive win in Grand Slam play since losing in the quarter-finals here last year. On Friday Djokovic posted a video after the medicine ball he was working out on went through a wooden floor. "I probably will," Djokovic told reporters when asked if he had received a repair bill. "The damage was pretty big, I must say. You know, huge muscles that I possess, it's kind of expected I make the big hole like that,'' Novak said. "I just swing with the ball quite hard in front of me, kind of to warm up the upper body, and after a second throw, I heard a crack. The wooden floor completely collapsed under. They fixed it in less than a day. Next day it wasn't there. But the next day I was doing it on a concrete wall and concrete steps. I learned my lesson," Djokovic added. Djokovic is bidding for his second title at Roland Garros having beaten Andy Murray in 2016 to hold all four Slams together and match Rod Laver's 1969 feat. Since his first, the French Open has undergone a huge makeover and Djokovic said he is impressed with the revamp of Chatrier, hinting that it could give him a subtle advantage. "Very nice. Great job, Roland Garros, for sure, to make this kind of renovation in less than 12 months is really impressive. It's a pleasure to play in the new court. It's different. It's a different feeling,'' he told reporters. "It looks different, obviously, and feels a bit different. Feels a little bit more like indoor, which I like," Djokovic added. Djokovic broke serve in the opening game on his way to taking the opening set in routine fashion and the only blip was when he dropped serve at 4-1 in the second set. The match was more or less in the bag by then, however, and Djokovic cantered to victory to set up a second-round clash with Swiss lucky loser Laaksonen. Djokovic has prior experience in needing a French Open title to win four Grand Slams in a row, although this time perhaps there is less pressure as he already triumphed on the clay. ''The routine will be the same though. I just need to be in my lockdown, so to say, mentally, and just do things that have worked for me in the past," he said.

French Open: Top seed Novak Djokovic powers past Hubert Hurkacz

Jelena Ostapenko suffered her second successive first-round loss at the French Open since winning the 2017 title as she was beaten by former world number one Victoria Azarenka on Tuesday.

Considering the calibre of her opponent, a 6-4, 7-6(4) loss was not as demoralising as last year's defeat by Ukraine's Kateryna Kozlova.

But it continued a steep decline for the 21-year-old who also fell in round one at the Australian Open and has managed back-to-back wins just once in 2019.

The match statistics made grim reading for Ostapenko with 60 unforced errors to Azarenka's 19.

While the Latvian continues to struggle, Azarenka is heading in the right direction having risen back into the top 50 for the first time since giving birth to son Leo in December 2016.

Yet it was the Belarussian who began the match in charitable fashion, opening with two double faults before watching two Ostapenko backhands flash by her.

She broke back in the next game but dropped serve for the third time in the set to trail 4-3.

Ostapenko double-faulted four times in the next game to hand back the advantage, then twice more at 5-6 to surrender a scrappy first set.

She continued to mix flashing winners with unforced errors in the second, leading 4-2 but allowing Azarenka back in.

Ostapenko served for the set at 6-5 and led 30-0 only to offer up more free points to her grateful opponent.

In the tiebreak Azarenka brought up match point with a thumping forehand winner and Ostpenko's 60th unforced error ended the contest.

Jelena Ostapenko suffered her second successive first-round loss at the French Open since winning the 2017 title as she was beaten by former world number one Victoria Azarenka on Tuesday.

Jelena Ostapenko suffered her second successive first-round loss at the French Open since winning the 2017 title as she was beaten by former world number one Victoria Azarenka on Tuesday. Considering the calibre of her opponent, a 6-4, 7-6(4) loss was not as demoralising as last year's defeat by Ukraine's Kateryna Kozlova. But it continued a steep decline for the 21-year-old who also fell in round one at the Australian Open and has managed back-to-back wins just once in 2019. The match statistics made grim reading for Ostapenko with 60 unforced errors to Azarenka's 19. While the Latvian continues to struggle, Azarenka is heading in the right direction having risen back into the top 50 for the first time since giving birth to son Leo in December 2016. Yet it was the Belarussian who began the match in charitable fashion, opening with two double faults before watching two Ostapenko backhands flash by her. She broke back in the next game but dropped serve for the third time in the set to trail 4-3. Ostapenko double-faulted four times in the next game to hand back the advantage, then twice more at 5-6 to surrender a scrappy first set. She continued to mix flashing winners with unforced errors in the second, leading 4-2 but allowing Azarenka back in. Ostapenko served for the set at 6-5 and led 30-0 only to offer up more free points to her grateful opponent. In the tiebreak Azarenka brought up match point with a thumping forehand winner and Ostpenko's 60th unforced error ended the contest.

Former French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko blows out in first round again

Alexander Zverev was made to work hard to reach the second round of the French Open with a 7-6 (7-4), 6-3, 2-6, 6-7 (5-7) 6-3 win over Australian John Millman on Tuesday.

The German fifth seed, looking for a major breakthrough on the Grand Slam stage, needed more than four hours to see off the world number 56 and set up a meeting with Swedish qualifier Mikael Ymer.

The 22-year-old Zverev, one of the leading figures of the sport's 'new generation', claimed his best result at a major when he reached the quarter-finals at Roland Garros last year.

For a moment, it seemed he could be sent packing on his first day on court.

Millman cancelled out Zverev's early break with the German winning the resulting tiebreak in the opener before sailing through the second set.

But Zverev never looked comfortable in changing conditions on Court Philippe Chatrier and he was overpowered in the third, Millman taking the tie into a fourth set with a powerful forehand winner.

Zverev stole his serve but Millman turned it around to force a tiebreak, which he won to take the match into a decider.

That did not please Zverev, who destroyed his racket in frustration.

But a timely break in the ninth game of the fifth set had him serve for the match. There were no nerves on display as Zverev ended the contest on his first match point.

Alexander Zverev was made to work hard to reach the second round of the French Open with a 7-6 (7-4), 6-3, 2-6, 6-7 (5-7) 6-3 win over Australian John Millman on Tuesday.

Alexander Zverev was made to work hard to reach the second round of the French Open with a 7-6 (7-4), 6-3, 2-6, 6-7 (5-7) 6-3 win over Australian John Millman on Tuesday. The German fifth seed, looking for a major breakthrough on the Grand Slam stage, needed more than four hours to see off the world number 56 and set up a meeting with Swedish qualifier Mikael Ymer. The 22-year-old Zverev, one of the leading figures of the sport's 'new generation', claimed his best result at a major when he reached the quarter-finals at Roland Garros last year. For a moment, it seemed he could be sent packing on his first day on court. Millman cancelled out Zverev's early break with the German winning the resulting tiebreak in the opener before sailing through the second set. But Zverev never looked comfortable in changing conditions on Court Philippe Chatrier and he was overpowered in the third, Millman taking the tie into a fourth set with a powerful forehand winner. Zverev stole his serve but Millman turned it around to force a tiebreak, which he won to take the match into a decider. That did not please Zverev, who destroyed his racket in frustration. But a timely break in the ninth game of the fifth set had him serve for the match. There were no nerves on display as Zverev ended the contest on his first match point.

French Open: Alexander Zverev defeats John Millman to enter second round

The world number one Novak Djokovic will start his historic bid to win four grand slam titles in a row for the second time at this season's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-rafa-nadal-threaten-djokovic-bid-for-historic-slam-221522">French Open</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Serbian tennis star can become only the second man in history to have twice held all four Grand Slam titles at the same time with victory at the French Open.&nbsp;

While ahead of the Grand Slam, Djokovic said that Rafael Nadal is his favourite for the tournament.&nbsp;

"He's the main favourite to win the title. I think it wouldn't be fair to pick anybody else but him as the main favourite, because he has won this tournament so many times," said the Serb, as he spoke at a press conference ahead of the Grand Slam in France.&nbsp;

"He has lost, what, two times in his career on Parisian clay? So, lots of respect for him, obviously, as always," he added.&nbsp;

Top seed Djokovic will start his French Open campaign against Poland's Hubert Hurkacz on Monday.&nbsp;

Djokovic has been enjoying a good run of form during the clay season, winning the title in Madrid before losing to Nadal in Rome.&nbsp;

Watch the preview of French Open 2019:

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On being asked about his preparations, Djokovic said, "Nothing really in particular days before Roland Garros. I don't do anything that is completely different from anything that I do in the different periods of the year. I do set up a strategy with my team to peak at the Grand Slams, because at this stage of my career, those are the ones that matter the most for me."&nbsp;

"I really want to win on every tournament that I participate, but of course Grand Slams just have a special place," he added.&nbsp;

The world number one Novak Djokovic will start his historic bid to win four grand slam titles in a row for the second time at this season's French Open. The Serbian tennis star can become only the second man in history to have twice held all four Grand Slam titles at the same time with victory at the French Open.

The world number one Novak Djokovic will start his historic bid to win four grand slam titles in a row for the second time at this season's French Open. The Serbian tennis star can become only the second man in history to have twice held all four Grand Slam titles at the same time with victory at the French Open. While ahead of the Grand Slam, Djokovic said that Rafael Nadal is his favourite for the tournament. "He's the main favourite to win the title. I think it wouldn't be fair to pick anybody else but him as the main favourite, because he has won this tournament so many times," said the Serb, as he spoke at a press conference ahead of the Grand Slam in France. "He has lost, what, two times in his career on Parisian clay? So, lots of respect for him, obviously, as always," he added. Top seed Djokovic will start his French Open campaign against Poland's Hubert Hurkacz on Monday. Djokovic has been enjoying a good run of form during the clay season, winning the title in Madrid before losing to Nadal in Rome. Watch the preview of French Open 2019: × On being asked about his preparations, Djokovic said, "Nothing really in particular days before Roland Garros. I don't do anything that is completely different from anything that I do in the different periods of the year. I do set up a strategy with my team to peak at the Grand Slams, because at this stage of my career, those are the ones that matter the most for me." "I really want to win on every tournament that I participate, but of course Grand Slams just have a special place," he added.

'He's the main favourite,' says Novak Djokovic about Rafael Nadal ahead of French Open

Novak Djokovic can become only the second man in history to have twice held all four Grand Slam titles at the same time with victory at the French Open. However, a returning Roger Federer and rejuvenated Rafael Nadal will once again stand in his way.

Who can stop Rafael Nadal from winning 12th title?

Novak Djokovic can become only the second man in history to have twice held all four Grand Slam titles at the same time with victory at the French Open.

However, a returning Roger Federer and rejuvenated Rafael Nadal will once again stand in his way.

World number one Djokovic completed his first private stranglehold of all four Slams with victory at Roland Garros in 2016.

Having clinched the 2018 Wimbledon and US Open titles and then a seventh Australian Open crown in January this year, the Serb is tantalisingly close to another 'Djoko Slam'.

Federer and Nadal, with 20 and 17 career Grand Slam titles each respectively, may be ahead of 15-time major winner Djokovic in total hauls.

However, they have never managed to hold all four of the sport's greatest prizes at the same time.

It is such a rare feat that only Don Budge (1938) and Rod Laver (1962 and 1969) -- all calendar Grand Slams -- have pulled off the sweep in the sport's history.

Djokovic, who turned 32 on Wednesday, is playing down his potential date with destiny.

After losing to Nadal in the Italian Open final last weekend, the Serb was in no doubt that it was the Spaniard who would likely be celebrating a 12th Roland Garros title in a little over two weeks' time.

"Nadal, number one favourite, without a doubt -- then everyone else," he said.

However, he admits his Paris triumph of 2016 which gave him his first sweep, is fuelling his bid for more history.

"There is an extra motivation and incentive to win Roland Garros because of the opportunity to hold all four Slams, something I did three years ago, and that gives me obviously enough reason to believe I can do it again."

Twelve months ago, such confidence would have appeared reckless when he was shocked by Italian journeyman Marco Cecchinato in the quarter-finals, a defeat which sent him crashing out of the top 20 for the first time in over a decade.

This time around he starts his campaign against Poland's Hubert Hurkacz, the world number 43 with a potential quarter-final against Germany's Alexander Zverev who has still to get past the last eight at a Slam.

Federer is returning to Roland Garros for the first time since 2015 having turned his back on clay court tennis to focus on Wimbledon.&nbsp;

10th anniversary

This year marks the 10th anniversary of his one and only Paris triumph and should the 37-year-old defy the odds and clinch the 2019 title he would become the oldest Grand Slam champion of all time.

However, Federer admits his hopes of seeing off Nadal and Djokovic are slim.

"I feel like I'm playing good tennis, but is it enough against the absolute top guys when it really comes to the crunch? I'm not sure if it's in my racquet," he said Friday.

The Swiss star faces Italy's Lorenzo Sonego, ranked at 73 in the first round on Sunday and could meet Nadal in the semi-finals.

Nadal, whose record at Roland Garros stands at a staggering 11 titles and a win-loss record of 86-2, claimed a ninth Italian Open title and a record 34th Masters last week.

"I don't care if I'm the favourite," said Nadal who starts against German qualifier Yannick Hanfmann, the world 184 who has never won a Grand Slam match.&nbsp;

"I care about feeling well and playing well."

Nadal's three-set win over Djokovic in Rome was timely as it was his first title of 2019 and had followed three successive semi-final losses at Monte Carlo, Barcelona and Madrid.

The last two of those were against Dominic Thiem and Stefanos Tsitsipas, both of whom play with a one-handed backhand, just like Federer.

Thiem, the 2018 runner-up to Nadal at Roland Garros, has defeated the Spaniard four times on clay.

"There is a new wave coming through with the one-handed backhand that can counter some of Rafa's spins and lefty play," said Federer.

Novak Djokovic can become only the second man in history to have twice held all four Grand Slam titles at the same time with victory at the French Open. However, a returning Roger Federer and rejuvenated Rafael Nadal will once again stand in his way. World number one Djokovic completed his first private stranglehold of all four Slams with victory at Roland Garros in 2016. Having clinched the 2018 Wimbledon and US Open titles and then a seventh Australian Open crown in January this year, the Serb is tantalisingly close to another 'Djoko Slam'. Federer and Nadal, with 20 and 17 career Grand Slam titles each respectively, may be ahead of 15-time major winner Djokovic in total hauls. However, they have never managed to hold all four of the sport's greatest prizes at the same time. It is such a rare feat that only Don Budge (1938) and Rod Laver (1962 and 1969) -- all calendar Grand Slams -- have pulled off the sweep in the sport's history. Djokovic, who turned 32 on Wednesday, is playing down his potential date with destiny. After losing to Nadal in the Italian Open final last weekend, the Serb was in no doubt that it was the Spaniard who would likely be celebrating a 12th Roland Garros title in a little over two weeks' time. "Nadal, number one favourite, without a doubt -- then everyone else," he said. However, he admits his Paris triumph of 2016 which gave him his first sweep, is fuelling his bid for more history. "There is an extra motivation and incentive to win Roland Garros because of the opportunity to hold all four Slams, something I did three years ago, and that gives me obviously enough reason to believe I can do it again." Twelve months ago, such confidence would have appeared reckless when he was shocked by Italian journeyman Marco Cecchinato in the quarter-finals, a defeat which sent him crashing out of the top 20 for the first time in over a decade. This time around he starts his campaign against Poland's Hubert Hurkacz, the world number 43 with a potential quarter-final against Germany's Alexander Zverev who has still to get past the last eight at a Slam. Federer is returning to Roland Garros for the first time since 2015 having turned his back on clay court tennis to focus on Wimbledon. 10th anniversary This year marks the 10th anniversary of his one and only Paris triumph and should the 37-year-old defy the odds and clinch the 2019 title he would become the oldest Grand Slam champion of all time. However, Federer admits his hopes of seeing off Nadal and Djokovic are slim. "I feel like I'm playing good tennis, but is it enough against the absolute top guys when it really comes to the crunch? I'm not sure if it's in my racquet," he said Friday. The Swiss star faces Italy's Lorenzo Sonego, ranked at 73 in the first round on Sunday and could meet Nadal in the semi-finals. Nadal, whose record at Roland Garros stands at a staggering 11 titles and a win-loss record of 86-2, claimed a ninth Italian Open title and a record 34th Masters last week. "I don't care if I'm the favourite," said Nadal who starts against German qualifier Yannick Hanfmann, the world 184 who has never won a Grand Slam match. "I care about feeling well and playing well." Nadal's three-set win over Djokovic in Rome was timely as it was his first title of 2019 and had followed three successive semi-final losses at Monte Carlo, Barcelona and Madrid. The last two of those were against Dominic Thiem and Stefanos Tsitsipas, both of whom play with a one-handed backhand, just like Federer. Thiem, the 2018 runner-up to Nadal at Roland Garros, has defeated the Spaniard four times on clay. "There is a new wave coming through with the one-handed backhand that can counter some of Rafa's spins and lefty play," said Federer.

Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal threaten Djokovic bid for historic Slam

Serena Williams heads into this year's French Open as an outsider for a Grand Slam title for possibly the first time in 20 years, with questions surrounding her fitness after a poor start to the season, while Naomi Osaka looks to solidify her position at the top of the women's game with a third straight major crown.

The 37-year-old Williams is still waiting for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam triumph, with her last victory coming at the 2017 Australian Open shortly before taking a break from the sport due to pregnancy.

She impressed initially after returning, but last year twice fell just short of drawing level with Margaret Court's mark, losing in the Wimbledon final to Angelique Kerber before her infamous meltdown en route to another final defeat by Osaka at Flushing Meadows.

Williams' 2019 campaign has not gone to plan so far, with a series of injuries seeing her manage just four matches since her Australian Open quarter-final exit to Karolina Pliskova.

But she is confident her work off the court can help her find her best game in the biggest tournaments.

"I actually haven't been able to train or practise a lot. I was out much longer than I expected," admitted the three-time French Open champion last week in Rome, before pulling out of the tournament ahead of a second-round tie with sister Venus.

"But I did everything I could to stay fit. I knew that I love the clay season and I wanted to be a part of it.

"It's not about today or tomorrow. For me obviously it's about playing well at all the big moments... Obviously the Slams, etc, just getting ready for those events."

Williams will face Russian world number 82 Vitalia Diatchenko in the first round, with the draw also throwing up a mouthwatering potential quarter-final against Osaka.

Osaka full of confidence

World number one Osaka has not been overly struggling since surprisingly splitting with coach Sascha Bajin in the wake of her Australian Open title.

But the Japanese star has not won a title since, and like Williams, withdrew from the Italian Open through injury before her quarter-final against Kiki Bertens.

It has still been the 21-year-old's best-ever clay-court campaign, having also reached the last eight in Madrid and the semi-finals in Stuttgart, and she feels her big-hitting game is now ready to dominate on all surfaces.

"Roland Garros, that's what I'm dreaming about right now," Osaka, who has never reached the second week in Paris, said.

"If you're talking about longer goals, of course I haven't won Wimbledon yet and it would be really cool to win everything in one year."

She also does not feel that her lack of a title since Melbourne will have a large bearing on her Roland Garros prospects ahead of her opening match against Slovakia's Anna Karolina Schmiedlova.

"I can't necessarily say it's been ups and downs because if I think about it, it's definitely been going up," she said.

Halep the favourite

Reigning champion Simona Halep will enter the tournament somewhat under the radar with much of the focus on Williams and Osaka, but the Romanian remains the world's most consistent player on clay.

The three-time French Open finalist is the bookmakers' favourite for the title, despite having lost both her finals so far this year and being knocked out in her first match in Rome by Czech youngster Marketa Vondrousova.

But she is the third seed in Paris and a name everyone will want to avoid later in the tournament, although she opens her title defence against Australian Ajla Tomljanovic, who reached the last 16 in 2014.

"(It's) much better and much easier, because I have the title already," said Halep, who won her maiden major trophy 12 months ago in her fourth final.

The women's game remains far more open than the men's, with a host of other players holding serious hopes of coming out on top, like Italian Open champion and second seed Pliskova and the in-form Petra Kvitova.

Anything can happen in the French capital, as shown by unheralded Latvian Jelena Ostapenko's shock victory only two years ago.

Serena Williams heads into this year's French Open as an outsider for a Grand Slam title for possibly the first time in 20 years, with questions surrounding her fitness after a poor start to the season, while Naomi Osaka looks to solidify her position at the top of the women's game with a third straight major crown.

Serena Williams heads into this year's French Open as an outsider for a Grand Slam title for possibly the first time in 20 years, with questions surrounding her fitness after a poor start to the season, while Naomi Osaka looks to solidify her position at the top of the women's game with a third straight major crown. The 37-year-old Williams is still waiting for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam triumph, with her last victory coming at the 2017 Australian Open shortly before taking a break from the sport due to pregnancy. She impressed initially after returning, but last year twice fell just short of drawing level with Margaret Court's mark, losing in the Wimbledon final to Angelique Kerber before her infamous meltdown en route to another final defeat by Osaka at Flushing Meadows. Williams' 2019 campaign has not gone to plan so far, with a series of injuries seeing her manage just four matches since her Australian Open quarter-final exit to Karolina Pliskova. But she is confident her work off the court can help her find her best game in the biggest tournaments. "I actually haven't been able to train or practise a lot. I was out much longer than I expected," admitted the three-time French Open champion last week in Rome, before pulling out of the tournament ahead of a second-round tie with sister Venus. "But I did everything I could to stay fit. I knew that I love the clay season and I wanted to be a part of it. "It's not about today or tomorrow. For me obviously it's about playing well at all the big moments... Obviously the Slams, etc, just getting ready for those events." Williams will face Russian world number 82 Vitalia Diatchenko in the first round, with the draw also throwing up a mouthwatering potential quarter-final against Osaka. Osaka full of confidence World number one Osaka has not been overly struggling since surprisingly splitting with coach Sascha Bajin in the wake of her Australian Open title. But the Japanese star has not won a title since, and like Williams, withdrew from the Italian Open through injury before her quarter-final against Kiki Bertens. It has still been the 21-year-old's best-ever clay-court campaign, having also reached the last eight in Madrid and the semi-finals in Stuttgart, and she feels her big-hitting game is now ready to dominate on all surfaces. "Roland Garros, that's what I'm dreaming about right now," Osaka, who has never reached the second week in Paris, said. "If you're talking about longer goals, of course I haven't won Wimbledon yet and it would be really cool to win everything in one year." She also does not feel that her lack of a title since Melbourne will have a large bearing on her Roland Garros prospects ahead of her opening match against Slovakia's Anna Karolina Schmiedlova. "I can't necessarily say it's been ups and downs because if I think about it, it's definitely been going up," she said. Halep the favourite Reigning champion Simona Halep will enter the tournament somewhat under the radar with much of the focus on Williams and Osaka, but the Romanian remains the world's most consistent player on clay. The three-time French Open finalist is the bookmakers' favourite for the title, despite having lost both her finals so far this year and being knocked out in her first match in Rome by Czech youngster Marketa Vondrousova. But she is the third seed in Paris and a name everyone will want to avoid later in the tournament, although she opens her title defence against Australian Ajla Tomljanovic, who reached the last 16 in 2014. "(It's) much better and much easier, because I have the title already," said Halep, who won her maiden major trophy 12 months ago in her fourth final. The women's game remains far more open than the men's, with a host of other players holding serious hopes of coming out on top, like Italian Open champion and second seed Pliskova and the in-form Petra Kvitova. Anything can happen in the French capital, as shown by unheralded Latvian Jelena Ostapenko's shock victory only two years ago.

Preview: Uncertainty over Serena fitness, Osaka form at Roland Garros

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=roger+federer">Roger Federer</a> was handed a comfortable-looking start in the French Open draw on Thursday as the 20-times Grand Slam champion makes his return to the tournament after a three-year hiatus.

The third-seeded Swiss will open his quest for a second Musketeers Cup against Italian Lorenzo Sonego, the world number 73, but faces a potentially tricky quarter-final against young Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas who beat him at this year's Australian Open.

Former world number one Federer, 37, is in the same half of the draw as claycourt master Rafa Nadal and could meet the Spaniard in the semis.

Defending champion Nadal, seeded second, will open up against a qualifier as he aims for a record-extending 12th title at Roland Garros.

"I had my first training today and I had good sensations," said Nadal, who was given a tour of the renovated stadium by tournament director Guy Forget after winning his first claycourt title of the season at the Italian Open.

"It was very important for me to play well in Rome, I hope it's a good sign for Roland Garros," the Spaniard, who could face Japanese Kei Nishikori in the last eight, added.

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Les tableaux de <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG19</a> sont sortis ! 
&gt; Simple dames : <a href="https://t.co/GVLqthJxMQ">https://t.co/GVLqthJxMQ</a> 
&gt; Simple messieurs : <a href="https://t.co/XYJXS0XSMV">https://t.co/XYJXS0XSMV</a>
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World number one Novak Djokovic, who is looking to hold all four majors for the second time in his career, will take on Hubert Hurkacz with a possible quarter-final against German Alexander Zverev.

In the women's draw, world number one Naomi Osaka will kick off her bid for a maiden French Open title against Slovak Anna Karolina Schmiedlova.

Defending champion Simona Halep of Romania, the third seed, will take on Australian Ajla Tomljanovic after being drawn in the same half as Osaka.

Serena Williams will face Vitalia Diatchenko in only her second match on clay this season after she retired from the Italian Open ahead of a second-round match against her sister Venus due to a knee injury.

With 23 singles Grand Slam titles to her name, the 10th-seeded American, on a quarter-final collision course with Osaka, is one short of the all-time record of Margaret Court.

One of the first-round clashes to watch is 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko against two-times Grand Slam winner Victoria Azarenka, with the winner likely to take on Osaka in the second round.

Roger Federer was handed a comfortable-looking start in the French Open draw on Thursday as the 20-times Grand Slam champion makes his return to the tournament after a three-year hiatus.

Roger Federer was handed a comfortable-looking start in the French Open draw on Thursday as the 20-times Grand Slam champion makes his return to the tournament after a three-year hiatus. The third-seeded Swiss will open his quest for a second Musketeers Cup against Italian Lorenzo Sonego, the world number 73, but faces a potentially tricky quarter-final against young Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas who beat him at this year's Australian Open. Former world number one Federer, 37, is in the same half of the draw as claycourt master Rafa Nadal and could meet the Spaniard in the semis. Defending champion Nadal, seeded second, will open up against a qualifier as he aims for a record-extending 12th title at Roland Garros. "I had my first training today and I had good sensations," said Nadal, who was given a tour of the renovated stadium by tournament director Guy Forget after winning his first claycourt title of the season at the Italian Open. "It was very important for me to play well in Rome, I hope it's a good sign for Roland Garros," the Spaniard, who could face Japanese Kei Nishikori in the last eight, added. Les tableaux de #RG19 sont sortis ! > Simple dames : https://t.co/GVLqthJxMQ > Simple messieurs : https://t.co/XYJXS0XSMV — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 23, 2019 × World number one Novak Djokovic, who is looking to hold all four majors for the second time in his career, will take on Hubert Hurkacz with a possible quarter-final against German Alexander Zverev. In the women's draw, world number one Naomi Osaka will kick off her bid for a maiden French Open title against Slovak Anna Karolina Schmiedlova. Defending champion Simona Halep of Romania, the third seed, will take on Australian Ajla Tomljanovic after being drawn in the same half as Osaka. Serena Williams will face Vitalia Diatchenko in only her second match on clay this season after she retired from the Italian Open ahead of a second-round match against her sister Venus due to a knee injury. With 23 singles Grand Slam titles to her name, the 10th-seeded American, on a quarter-final collision course with Osaka, is one short of the all-time record of Margaret Court. One of the first-round clashes to watch is 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko against two-times Grand Slam winner Victoria Azarenka, with the winner likely to take on Osaka in the second round.

Draw hands Roger Federer smooth start on French Open return

Firebrand Nick Kyrgios pulled out of Roland Garros on Friday, just days after saying the&nbsp;French&nbsp;Open&nbsp;"sucks".

Organisers confirmed the Australian's withdrawal from the second Grand Slam tournament of the season and he will be replaced by a lucky loser from qualifying.

The 24-year-old was due to have faced Britain's Cameron Norrie in the first round.

Last week, Kyrgios was disqualified from the Italian&nbsp;Open&nbsp;in Rome and headed straight to London to practice with Andy Murray at Wimbledon.

"I think this is the best tournament in the world, look at this perfect green surface," Kyrgios wrote on Instagram alongside a picture of him sitting on the grass courts.

"Get rid of the clay, man. Who likes the clay, it is so bad.

"The&nbsp;French&nbsp;Open&nbsp;sucks compared to this place. Sucks. Absolute sucks."

Kyrgios also withdrew from the&nbsp;French&nbsp;Open&nbsp;last year and has never reached the second week in Paris.

Firebrand Nick Kyrgios pulled out of Roland Garros on Friday, just days after saying the French Open "sucks". Organisers confirmed the Australian's withdrawal from the second Grand Slam tournament of the season and he will be replaced by a lucky loser from qualifying.

Firebrand Nick Kyrgios pulled out of Roland Garros on Friday, just days after saying the French Open "sucks". Organisers confirmed the Australian's withdrawal from the second Grand Slam tournament of the season and he will be replaced by a lucky loser from qualifying. The 24-year-old was due to have faced Britain's Cameron Norrie in the first round. Last week, Kyrgios was disqualified from the Italian Open in Rome and headed straight to London to practice with Andy Murray at Wimbledon. "I think this is the best tournament in the world, look at this perfect green surface," Kyrgios wrote on Instagram alongside a picture of him sitting on the grass courts. "Get rid of the clay, man. Who likes the clay, it is so bad. "The French Open sucks compared to this place. Sucks. Absolute sucks." Kyrgios also withdrew from the French Open last year and has never reached the second week in Paris.

Australian Nick Kyrgios pulls out of French Open: Organisers

Rafael Nadal said on Friday that he "doesn't care" if he is the red-hot favourite to lift a record-extending <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/draw-hands-roger-federer-smooth-start-on-french-open-return-221215">12th French Open</a> title at Roland Garros, insisting that there are a host of players in contention for the trophy.

The world number two holds an incredible French Open win-loss record of 86-2, and hit top form by winning his ninth Italian Open last week with a final victory over old rival Novak Djokovic.

Nadal could move to within two titles of Roger Federer's all-time men's record of 20 Grand Slam trophies if he lifts the Coupe des Mousquetaires on June 9.

"I don't care if I'm the favourite," he said. "I care about feeling well and playing well.

"I appreciate that you (the media) see me like that, but (Dominic) Thiem, Novak (Djokovic), Federer, Tsitsipas who has been playing well, (Juan Martin) del Potro, (Kei) Nishikori -- all those that are the best in the world will be favourites.

"The only thing that worries me is being well and being competitive.

"The only favourite that matters is the one who has the cup at home in two weeks' time."

Before his triumph in Rome, it had been far from a trademark clay-court season for Nadal.

The Spaniard failed in his bids for 12th titles in both Monte Carlo and Barcelona, where he lost in the semi-finals to Fabio Fognini and Thiem respectively.

Another last-four exit followed on home soil in Madrid against Greek rising star Tsitsipas.

Nadal admits it took him time to rediscover his top form after a one-month absence with the right knee injury which forced him to withdraw from Indian Wells before a scheduled semi-final against Federer.

"When you're recovering from an injury it's also difficult to recover mentally," he said. "I had not had that for a long time.

"Losing in the semi-finals is considered bad... Without playing especially well at the start of the clay season.

"You have to have the humility to value small improvements. For me, one very positive thing was that before I started Rome, it was not a disaster -- I'd made three semi-finals.

"It's not incredible, but it's not a total disaster either."

Warm-up on the fairways

Nadal, who faces a qualifier in the first round but could meet Federer or Tsitsipas in a potential semi-final clash, was pleased to get away from the court after his Rome success.

"I have been at home, one day of golf, one day of family, and came back here.

"(I've) already had two practices here. Good practices. (I'm) just trying to continue the preparation and just hold the level."

But Nadal will not be over-confident in the first week, pointing to his famous shock early Wimbledon defeats by Steve Darcis and Dustin Brown.

"The problem with Dustin Brown is that if I play badly, I lose to anyone," he said. "In 2015, I was playing badly, it was normal to lose to a dangerous player on grass.

"I also lost to Darcis in 2013. It's part of the sport. When one plays badly he usually loses."

But Nadal has only lost to two men at Roland Garros since his triumphant debut in 2005 -- against the now-retired Robin Soderling and this year's top seed Djokovic, who he could face in the final as the Serbian chases a fourth consecutive Grand Slam crown.

Rafael Nadal said on Friday that he "doesn't care" if he is the red-hot favourite to lift a record-extending 12th French Open title at Roland Garros, insisting that there are a host of players in contention for the trophy.

Rafael Nadal said on Friday that he "doesn't care" if he is the red-hot favourite to lift a record-extending 12th French Open title at Roland Garros, insisting that there are a host of players in contention for the trophy. The world number two holds an incredible French Open win-loss record of 86-2, and hit top form by winning his ninth Italian Open last week with a final victory over old rival Novak Djokovic. Nadal could move to within two titles of Roger Federer's all-time men's record of 20 Grand Slam trophies if he lifts the Coupe des Mousquetaires on June 9. "I don't care if I'm the favourite," he said. "I care about feeling well and playing well. "I appreciate that you (the media) see me like that, but (Dominic) Thiem, Novak (Djokovic), Federer, Tsitsipas who has been playing well, (Juan Martin) del Potro, (Kei) Nishikori -- all those that are the best in the world will be favourites. "The only thing that worries me is being well and being competitive. "The only favourite that matters is the one who has the cup at home in two weeks' time." Before his triumph in Rome, it had been far from a trademark clay-court season for Nadal. The Spaniard failed in his bids for 12th titles in both Monte Carlo and Barcelona, where he lost in the semi-finals to Fabio Fognini and Thiem respectively. Another last-four exit followed on home soil in Madrid against Greek rising star Tsitsipas. Nadal admits it took him time to rediscover his top form after a one-month absence with the right knee injury which forced him to withdraw from Indian Wells before a scheduled semi-final against Federer. "When you're recovering from an injury it's also difficult to recover mentally," he said. "I had not had that for a long time. "Losing in the semi-finals is considered bad... Without playing especially well at the start of the clay season. "You have to have the humility to value small improvements. For me, one very positive thing was that before I started Rome, it was not a disaster -- I'd made three semi-finals. "It's not incredible, but it's not a total disaster either." Warm-up on the fairways Nadal, who faces a qualifier in the first round but could meet Federer or Tsitsipas in a potential semi-final clash, was pleased to get away from the court after his Rome success. "I have been at home, one day of golf, one day of family, and came back here. "(I've) already had two practices here. Good practices. (I'm) just trying to continue the preparation and just hold the level." But Nadal will not be over-confident in the first week, pointing to his famous shock early Wimbledon defeats by Steve Darcis and Dustin Brown. "The problem with Dustin Brown is that if I play badly, I lose to anyone," he said. "In 2015, I was playing badly, it was normal to lose to a dangerous player on grass. "I also lost to Darcis in 2013. It's part of the sport. When one plays badly he usually loses." But Nadal has only lost to two men at Roland Garros since his triumphant debut in 2005 -- against the now-retired Robin Soderling and this year's top seed Djokovic, who he could face in the final as the Serbian chases a fourth consecutive Grand Slam crown.

Rafa Nadal 'doesn't care' if he's French Open favourite

Most defending champions would start a grand slam with added pressure but Simona Halep declared she would kick off her <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/draw-hands-roger-federer-smooth-start-on-french-open-return-221215">French Open campaign</a> knowing that she's 'done it already'.

The third-seeded Romanian lifted the Suzanne Lenglen Cup last year after coming off second best at two previous Roland Garros finals.

"It's much better and much easier, because I have the title already. Doesn't matter anymore what is going to happen," the 27-year-old told reporters on Friday ahead of the May 26-June 9 claycourt tournament.

"Everything comes now as a bonus. So I will try just to give my best and to see if I'm able to do it again."

Halep, who lost in the 2014 and 2017 finals in Paris, will kick off her campaign against Australian Ajla Tomljanovic and appears to have an easy path to the quarter-finals, where she faces a potential clash with Czech Petra Kvitova.

"I will try to do things (like) a kid, enjoying the time. I wanted this badly, and I wanted so much that now having it, I just want to be happy and to smile," said Halep, who has not gone past the fourth round in a grand slam since she triumphed here last year.

"Yesterday when I had the chance to touch the trophy again (at the draw ceremony), I wanted to take it home, but I was not able to do that."

On clay, she reached the final of the Madrid Open before losing in the second round of the Italian Open last week.

"I played so well in Fed Cup (against France). I really felt the game, and I was really confident after that tie. Also disappointed that we couldn't win the match, but still gave me a lot of confidence," she said.

"And then going to Madrid which is maybe my favourite tournament, because I won twice there, and I played two finals, even if I didn't win the final, I felt that my level is very high.

"I have confidence. I don't count Rome this year."

Most defending champions would start a grand slam with added pressure but Simona Halep declared she would kick off her French Open campaign knowing that she's 'done it already'.

Most defending champions would start a grand slam with added pressure but Simona Halep declared she would kick off her French Open campaign knowing that she's 'done it already'. The third-seeded Romanian lifted the Suzanne Lenglen Cup last year after coming off second best at two previous Roland Garros finals. "It's much better and much easier, because I have the title already. Doesn't matter anymore what is going to happen," the 27-year-old told reporters on Friday ahead of the May 26-June 9 claycourt tournament. "Everything comes now as a bonus. So I will try just to give my best and to see if I'm able to do it again." Halep, who lost in the 2014 and 2017 finals in Paris, will kick off her campaign against Australian Ajla Tomljanovic and appears to have an easy path to the quarter-finals, where she faces a potential clash with Czech Petra Kvitova. "I will try to do things (like) a kid, enjoying the time. I wanted this badly, and I wanted so much that now having it, I just want to be happy and to smile," said Halep, who has not gone past the fourth round in a grand slam since she triumphed here last year. "Yesterday when I had the chance to touch the trophy again (at the draw ceremony), I wanted to take it home, but I was not able to do that." On clay, she reached the final of the Madrid Open before losing in the second round of the Italian Open last week. "I played so well in Fed Cup (against France). I really felt the game, and I was really confident after that tie. Also disappointed that we couldn't win the match, but still gave me a lot of confidence," she said. "And then going to Madrid which is maybe my favourite tournament, because I won twice there, and I played two finals, even if I didn't win the final, I felt that my level is very high. "I have confidence. I don't count Rome this year."

Simona Halep to start French Open title defence with no extra pressure

French Open champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Simona+Halep">Simona Halep</a> has said won't be burdened by expectations that she can repeat last year's triumph and would rather focus on enjoying the Grand Slam which starts on Sunday.

The 27-year-old Romanian enters Roland Garros as a favourite for the title given the contrasting form of some of the top names, including Japan's world number one Naomi Osaka, but her own claycourt preparation has not been spectacular either.

World number three Halep could have knocked Osaka off top spot by winning the Madrid Open earlier this month but lost in straight sets to Dutchwoman Kiki Bertens in the final.

A few days later, she fell at her first hurdle in the Italian Open, losing to Marketa Vondrousova -- Halep's second defeat by the 19-year-old Czech this year after a three-set loss at Indian Wells.

However, the Romanian said she did not feel any extra pressure to retain her title at Roland Garros.

"I have no expectations because it's the first time when I have to defend a trophy at a Grand Slam," she told Romania's Digi Sport TV station. "(I just want to) be relaxed, enjoy the tournament and try to win some matches. Nothing more!"

Elite group

Halep has been backed by former French Open champions Mats Wilander and Justine Henin to join an elite group of players in retaining her crown, with three-times men’s champion Wilander saying Halep versus Serena Williams would be "a dream final".

Williams, 37, is battling to be fit for Roland Garros having pulled out of the Italian Open last Tuesday due to a persistent knee injury..

Only five women have successfully defended their titles at the French Open - Margaret Court, Chris Evert, Monica Seles, Steffi Graf and Henin.

Last year Halep finally made it over the line in Paris with a three-set victory over American Sloane Stephens in the final for her maiden Grand Slam title.

The Romanian has special memories of Roland Garros, which is where she won the junior title in 2008 and reached her first major final against Maria Sharapova in 2014.

Halep received medical treatment in the closing stages of the Vondrousova defeat but has shrugged off concerns about her own fitness by declaring herself ready to compete in Paris.

The Romanian even saw some advantages from her early exit in the Italian capital.

"It's also a good thing if you look at the positive side, I needed a few days of relaxation," Halep said. "I rest and hope to have the batteries loaded for Roland Garros."

French Open champion Simona Halep has said won't be burdened by expectations that she can repeat last year's triumph and would rather focus on enjoying the Grand Slam which starts on Sunday.

French Open champion Simona Halep has said won't be burdened by expectations that she can repeat last year's triumph and would rather focus on enjoying the Grand Slam which starts on Sunday. The 27-year-old Romanian enters Roland Garros as a favourite for the title given the contrasting form of some of the top names, including Japan's world number one Naomi Osaka, but her own claycourt preparation has not been spectacular either. World number three Halep could have knocked Osaka off top spot by winning the Madrid Open earlier this month but lost in straight sets to Dutchwoman Kiki Bertens in the final. A few days later, she fell at her first hurdle in the Italian Open, losing to Marketa Vondrousova -- Halep's second defeat by the 19-year-old Czech this year after a three-set loss at Indian Wells. However, the Romanian said she did not feel any extra pressure to retain her title at Roland Garros. "I have no expectations because it's the first time when I have to defend a trophy at a Grand Slam," she told Romania's Digi Sport TV station. "(I just want to) be relaxed, enjoy the tournament and try to win some matches. Nothing more!" Elite group Halep has been backed by former French Open champions Mats Wilander and Justine Henin to join an elite group of players in retaining her crown, with three-times men’s champion Wilander saying Halep versus Serena Williams would be "a dream final". Williams, 37, is battling to be fit for Roland Garros having pulled out of the Italian Open last Tuesday due to a persistent knee injury.. Only five women have successfully defended their titles at the French Open - Margaret Court, Chris Evert, Monica Seles, Steffi Graf and Henin. Last year Halep finally made it over the line in Paris with a three-set victory over American Sloane Stephens in the final for her maiden Grand Slam title. The Romanian has special memories of Roland Garros, which is where she won the junior title in 2008 and reached her first major final against Maria Sharapova in 2014. Halep received medical treatment in the closing stages of the Vondrousova defeat but has shrugged off concerns about her own fitness by declaring herself ready to compete in Paris. The Romanian even saw some advantages from her early exit in the Italian capital. "It's also a good thing if you look at the positive side, I needed a few days of relaxation," Halep said. "I rest and hope to have the batteries loaded for Roland Garros."

Defending champion Simona Halep shrugs off expectations ahead of French Open

Japan's tennis star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/italian-open-roger-federer-rafael-nadal-and-naomi-osaka-through-to-last-16-219212">Naomi Osaka</a> withdrew from the Italian Open quarter-finals on Friday with a right thumb injury. "I woke up this morning and couldn't really move my thumb," Osaka told reporters.&nbsp;

She added, "I tried to practise and grip my racket but I couldn't, and I kept feeling this pain when I tried to move my hand in different directions."&nbsp;

Osaka was due to meet sixth seed Kiki Bertens for a place in the final four in Rome.&nbsp;

"Right now I'm... in between sad and disappointed because I really wanted to play my match today. For me, it was sort of a test to play against Kiki because she's playing really well and I wanted to see how well I could do today."&nbsp;

The injury casts doubts over Osaka's participation in this month's French Open, which is scheduled to kick off from May 26.

However, she refused to rule out competing in Roland Garros.

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"I'm kind of in between sad and disappointed."<a href="https://twitter.com/Naomi_Osaka_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Naomi_Osaka_</a> speaks with the press following her withdrawal from the <a href="https://twitter.com/InteBNLdItalia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@InteBNLdItalia</a> 
 
Full press conference--&gt; <a href="https://t.co/1jtfspyngh">https://t.co/1jtfspyngh</a> <a href="https://t.co/Doh4B5CdB7">pic.twitter.com/Doh4B5CdB7</a>
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"Right now I'm... in between sad and disappointed because I really wanted to play my match today. For me, it was sort of a test to play against Kiki because she's playing really well and I wanted to see how well I could do today.

"I didn't feel anything yesterday. That's why I'm kind of confused right now because I literally woke up in the morning and couldn't move my thumb. So I was like, maybe I slept on it and maybe it will go away, but it didn't."

Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka withdrew from the Italian Open quarter-finals on Friday with a right thumb injury. "I woke up this morning and couldn't really move my thumb," Osaka told reporters.

Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka withdrew from the Italian Open quarter-finals on Friday with a right thumb injury. "I woke up this morning and couldn't really move my thumb," Osaka told reporters. She added, "I tried to practise and grip my racket but I couldn't, and I kept feeling this pain when I tried to move my hand in different directions." Osaka was due to meet sixth seed Kiki Bertens for a place in the final four in Rome. "Right now I'm... in between sad and disappointed because I really wanted to play my match today. For me, it was sort of a test to play against Kiki because she's playing really well and I wanted to see how well I could do today." The injury casts doubts over Osaka's participation in this month's French Open, which is scheduled to kick off from May 26. However, she refused to rule out competing in Roland Garros. "I'm kind of in between sad and disappointed."@Naomi_Osaka_ speaks with the press following her withdrawal from the @InteBNLdItalia Full press conference--> https://t.co/1jtfspyngh pic.twitter.com/Doh4B5CdB7 — WTA (@WTA) May 17, 2019 × "Right now I'm... in between sad and disappointed because I really wanted to play my match today. For me, it was sort of a test to play against Kiki because she's playing really well and I wanted to see how well I could do today. "I didn't feel anything yesterday. That's why I'm kind of confused right now because I literally woke up in the morning and couldn't move my thumb. So I was like, maybe I slept on it and maybe it will go away, but it didn't."

Naomi Osaka pulls out of Italian Open due to right thumb injury

Australia's Nick Kyrgios has branded <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-breezes-past-stan-wawrinka-and-into-madrid-open-semi-finals-217751&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjLmMe9up_iAhWLto8KHeYwBrQQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2eHmfuOnnrts7xbjBisn-b">Rafa Nada</a>l a sore loser, the Spaniard's uncle Toni an "idiot" and said <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-wins-third-madrid-title-and-33rd-masters-218214&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjOw42yup_iAhWc6nMBHXsdAkkQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1WWp-gQ8oWfQVDqsN8yi5R">world number one Novak Djokovic</a> has a "sick obsession" with being liked in a podcast certain to ruffle feathers ahead of the French Open.

Speaking to tennis writer Ben Rothenberg on the 'No Challenges Remaining'&nbsp;podcast, the 24-year-old also disparaged a number of other top professionals and fans who heckle him at his matches.

Kyrgios has had a tense relationship with Nadal, who accused him of "lacking respect for the public, the opponent and himself" after being beaten by the Australian at the Mexican Open in March.

World number 36 Kyrgios labelled the French Open champion "super salty" -- slang for someone who is aggressive or ill-humoured -- and only gracious after victory.

"When he wins, it’s fine. He won’t say anything bad, he’ll credit the opponent, ‘He was a great player’. But as soon as I beat him, it’s just like, ‘He has no respect for me, my fans and no respect to the game’," said Kyrgios.

"It’s not a good look for you, I feel. And then uncle Toni came out saying, 'He lacks education'. I’m like, 'Bra (brother), I did 12 years at school, you idiot. 
"I’m very educated. I understand that you’re upset I beat your family again’."

Turning his sights on another of the game's modern greats, Kyrgios described Djokovic as "an unbelievable player" and "a champion of the sport" but said the Serb was too desperate to be admired like popular Swiss rival <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/dominic-thiem-ousts-roger-federer-in-madrid-open-thriller-to-reach-semis-217625&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjLmMe9up_iAhWLto8KHeYwBrQQFjAEegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3iPu7fuhkbe9oNnIgIuVPh">Roger Federer.</a>

"I just feel like he has a sick obsession with wanting to be liked. He just wants to be like Roger," he said.

"For me personally -- I don’t care right now, I’ve come this far -- I feel like he just wants to be liked so much that I just can’t stand him.

"This whole celebration thing that he does after matches, it’s like so cringeworthy. It’s very cringeworthy."

Kyrgios devoted special attention to Spanish veteran Fernando Verdasco, calling him "the most arrogant person ever".

He spoke warmly of three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray but also said the Briton's head-to-head record against Djokovic -- 11-25 in matches and 2-5 in Grand Slam finals -- was "embarrassing".

He gave no apologies for hitting back at spectators who give him a hard time during matches.

"These guys show me no respect. None," he said.

"So why would I show you respect? For instance, when I’m taking matches, I don’t care that you paid for tickets. You guys treat me like crap anyway."

Kyrgios, who has thrilled fans with the purity of his tennis and alienated some by flouting the game's conventions, plays Norway's Casper Ruud in the second round of the Rome Masters later on Thursday.

He will then bid to surpass the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam for the first time at the May 26-June&nbsp;French Open. 
&nbsp;

Australia's Nick Kyrgios has branded Rafa Nadal a sore loser, the Spaniard's uncle Toni an "idiot" and said world number one Novak Djokovic has a "sick obsession" with being liked in a podcast certain to ruffle feathers ahead of the French Open.

Australia's Nick Kyrgios has branded Rafa Nadal a sore loser, the Spaniard's uncle Toni an "idiot" and said world number one Novak Djokovic has a "sick obsession" with being liked in a podcast certain to ruffle feathers ahead of the French Open. Speaking to tennis writer Ben Rothenberg on the 'No Challenges Remaining' podcast, the 24-year-old also disparaged a number of other top professionals and fans who heckle him at his matches. Kyrgios has had a tense relationship with Nadal, who accused him of "lacking respect for the public, the opponent and himself" after being beaten by the Australian at the Mexican Open in March. World number 36 Kyrgios labelled the French Open champion "super salty" -- slang for someone who is aggressive or ill-humoured -- and only gracious after victory. "When he wins, it’s fine. He won’t say anything bad, he’ll credit the opponent, ‘He was a great player’. But as soon as I beat him, it’s just like, ‘He has no respect for me, my fans and no respect to the game’," said Kyrgios. "It’s not a good look for you, I feel. And then uncle Toni came out saying, 'He lacks education'. I’m like, 'Bra (brother), I did 12 years at school, you idiot. "I’m very educated. I understand that you’re upset I beat your family again’." Turning his sights on another of the game's modern greats, Kyrgios described Djokovic as "an unbelievable player" and "a champion of the sport" but said the Serb was too desperate to be admired like popular Swiss rival Roger Federer. "I just feel like he has a sick obsession with wanting to be liked. He just wants to be like Roger," he said. "For me personally -- I don’t care right now, I’ve come this far -- I feel like he just wants to be liked so much that I just can’t stand him. "This whole celebration thing that he does after matches, it’s like so cringeworthy. It’s very cringeworthy." Kyrgios devoted special attention to Spanish veteran Fernando Verdasco, calling him "the most arrogant person ever". He spoke warmly of three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray but also said the Briton's head-to-head record against Djokovic -- 11-25 in matches and 2-5 in Grand Slam finals -- was "embarrassing". He gave no apologies for hitting back at spectators who give him a hard time during matches. "These guys show me no respect. None," he said. "So why would I show you respect? For instance, when I’m taking matches, I don’t care that you paid for tickets. You guys treat me like crap anyway." Kyrgios, who has thrilled fans with the purity of his tennis and alienated some by flouting the game's conventions, plays Norway's Casper Ruud in the second round of the Rome Masters later on Thursday. He will then bid to surpass the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam for the first time at the May 26-June French Open.

Nick Kyrgios calls Novak Djokovic 'cringeworthy', Rafael Nadal 'salty' in candid podcast

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/maria-sharapova-withdraws-from-italian-open-215391&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjfso-E0p_iAhUL6Y8KHaNCAVQQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3_rd0ZDTHX5OlFQ2Xq8zCf">Maria Sharapova</a> has pulled out of this year's French Open with a shoulder injury, the two-time former Roland Garros winner announced on Wednesday.

Sharapova, 32, a five-time Grand Slam champion, has not played since pulling out of a tournament in her native Russia at the end of January.

"Sometimes the right decisions aren't always the easiest ones," she said in a post on her Instagram account.

"In better news, I have returned to the practice court, and slowly building the strength back in my shoulder," she added with a picture of her lifting the Roland Garros trophy in 2014.

In February the world number 35 said she had undergone a small procedure to fix a long-standing shoulder problem.

The former world number one had missed out on a place in the Australian Open quarter-finals in January.

Sharapova has been struggling back to top fitness since watching from the sidelines during her 15-month doping ban that ended in 2017.

This year's French Open will run from May 26 until June 9, with Rafael Nadal and Simona Halep as defending champions

Maria Sharapova has pulled out of this year's French Open with a shoulder injury, the two-time former Roland Garros winner announced on Wednesday. Sharapova, 32, a five-time Grand Slam champion, has not played since pulling out of a tournament in her native Russia at the end of January.

Maria Sharapova has pulled out of this year's French Open with a shoulder injury, the two-time former Roland Garros winner announced on Wednesday. Sharapova, 32, a five-time Grand Slam champion, has not played since pulling out of a tournament in her native Russia at the end of January. "Sometimes the right decisions aren't always the easiest ones," she said in a post on her Instagram account. "In better news, I have returned to the practice court, and slowly building the strength back in my shoulder," she added with a picture of her lifting the Roland Garros trophy in 2014. In February the world number 35 said she had undergone a small procedure to fix a long-standing shoulder problem. The former world number one had missed out on a place in the Australian Open quarter-finals in January. Sharapova has been struggling back to top fitness since watching from the sidelines during her 15-month doping ban that ended in 2017. This year's French Open will run from May 26 until June 9, with Rafael Nadal and Simona Halep as defending champions

Maria Sharapova pulls out of French Open due to shoulder injury

Former world no. 1 Justine Henin won 7 Grand Slam titles in a five year span from 2003 to 2007. Four of them came on the iconic clay courts of Roland Garros including three in a row from 2005 to 2007. On a visit to India as an ambassador for the French Open, Henin spoke exclusively to WION - reflecting on her remarkable career, analysing the current state of women's tennis and picking her players to watch out for at the 2019 French Open.

WION Exclusive with Tennis Legend Justine Henin

Nicolas Almagro chose his hometown tournament in Murcia to announce his retirement from tennis on Monday.

Once ranked in the top 10 and an earner of over $10 million (8.8 million euros) in career prize money, the 33-year-old has struggled badly with injury in recent seasons.

"I quit. Because in the past few years I have not been able to enjoy the sport that gave me so much, that gave me so many wonderful moments and that has made my dreams come true," he wrote on Twitter.

Almagro was overshadowed for much of his career by countryman Rafael Nadal, to whom he lost in three French Open quarter-finals.

"I'm happy that the end comes here at a tournament which means so much to me," he said of the clay-court event on the secondary ATP Challenger circuit.

Almagro won 13 tournaments and also helped Spain to a Davis Cup triumph in 2008.

Nicolas Almagro chose his hometown tournament in Murcia to announce his retirement from tennis on Monday. Once ranked in the top 10 and an earner of over $10 million (8.

Nicolas Almagro chose his hometown tournament in Murcia to announce his retirement from tennis on Monday. Once ranked in the top 10 and an earner of over $10 million (8.8 million euros) in career prize money, the 33-year-old has struggled badly with injury in recent seasons. "I quit. Because in the past few years I have not been able to enjoy the sport that gave me so much, that gave me so many wonderful moments and that has made my dreams come true," he wrote on Twitter. Almagro was overshadowed for much of his career by countryman Rafael Nadal, to whom he lost in three French Open quarter-finals. "I'm happy that the end comes here at a tournament which means so much to me," he said of the clay-court event on the secondary ATP Challenger circuit. Almagro won 13 tournaments and also helped Spain to a Davis Cup triumph in 2008.

Rafael Nadal rival Nicolas Almagro retires at hometown event

Roger Federer has given cold comfort to the next generation of men's players hoping for Grand Slam glory, saying he, Novak Djokovic and Rafa Nadal are still deserving favourites to claim the game's biggest trophies.&nbsp;

The top three seeds at Melbourne Park raffled all four of the majors between them last year, with Federer winning his sixth Australian Open, Nadal claiming his 11th French Open and world number one Djokovic sweeping Wimbledon and the US&nbsp;Open.&nbsp;

The Swiss master is bidding for his 21st Grand Slam crown and a hat-trick of Melbourne titles this year, and he sailed into the third round on Wednesday with a straight sets win over British qualifier Dan Evans.

Before the tournament, top seed Djokovic declared the three should be favourites to win the Slams, and Federer agreed when asked after his Evans match.

"Yes, I guess so," the third seed told reporters.

"I mean, look, I think we know how to win Slams, Novak, Rafa, myself. I mean, Rafa has to be the number one favourite, I don't care how he feels, before the French.

"Novak is always a favourite on the hard courts, basically any court if he's feeling 100 percent, if he plays like last year.

"Maybe just because of my amount of titles I have at Wimbledon and other places, maybe also have to put me in the mix every time, as well."

The last time a player not named Federer, Djokovic or Nadal won a Grand Slam was at the 2016 US&nbsp;Open where Swiss Stan Wawrinka claimed his third Grand Slam trophy.

Pundits have decried the younger generation's failure to break into the Grand Slam cartel enjoyed by the old guard but have some tipped change at the top this year.

The 21-year-old Alexander Zverev, who claimed the ATP Tour Finals and is seeded fourth in Melbourne, is often touted as the player most likely to upset the apple cart but has only a solitary Grand Slam quarter-final to his name, at Roland Garros last year.

"There are other guys, no doubt about it," said 37-year-old Federer, who will play American Taylor Fritz in the third round.

"I think also with Sascha (Zverev) holding the World Tour Finals, I think it's fair to say that even though he has not ripped through those Slams yet, he will go deep this year definitely at one of them.

"Maybe even here. We'll see."

Roger Federer has given cold comfort to the next generation of men's players hoping for Grand Slam glory, saying he, Novak Djokovic and Rafa Nadal are still deserving favourites to claim the game's biggest trophies.

Roger Federer has given cold comfort to the next generation of men's players hoping for Grand Slam glory, saying he, Novak Djokovic and Rafa Nadal are still deserving favourites to claim the game's biggest trophies. The top three seeds at Melbourne Park raffled all four of the majors between them last year, with Federer winning his sixth Australian Open, Nadal claiming his 11th French Open and world number one Djokovic sweeping Wimbledon and the US Open. The Swiss master is bidding for his 21st Grand Slam crown and a hat-trick of Melbourne titles this year, and he sailed into the third round on Wednesday with a straight sets win over British qualifier Dan Evans. Before the tournament, top seed Djokovic declared the three should be favourites to win the Slams, and Federer agreed when asked after his Evans match. "Yes, I guess so," the third seed told reporters. "I mean, look, I think we know how to win Slams, Novak, Rafa, myself. I mean, Rafa has to be the number one favourite, I don't care how he feels, before the French. "Novak is always a favourite on the hard courts, basically any court if he's feeling 100 percent, if he plays like last year. "Maybe just because of my amount of titles I have at Wimbledon and other places, maybe also have to put me in the mix every time, as well." The last time a player not named Federer, Djokovic or Nadal won a Grand Slam was at the 2016 US Open where Swiss Stan Wawrinka claimed his third Grand Slam trophy. Pundits have decried the younger generation's failure to break into the Grand Slam cartel enjoyed by the old guard but have some tipped change at the top this year. The 21-year-old Alexander Zverev, who claimed the ATP Tour Finals and is seeded fourth in Melbourne, is often touted as the player most likely to upset the apple cart but has only a solitary Grand Slam quarter-final to his name, at Roland Garros last year. "There are other guys, no doubt about it," said 37-year-old Federer, who will play American Taylor Fritz in the third round. "I think also with Sascha (Zverev) holding the World Tour Finals, I think it's fair to say that even though he has not ripped through those Slams yet, he will go deep this year definitely at one of them. "Maybe even here. We'll see."

Djokovic, Nadal and I know how to win Grand Slams: Roger Federer

As Australia sizzles, 'Serena-tard' clashes with tennis dress code

India's star badminton player Kidambi Srikanth on Wednesday defeated Hong Kong's Wong Wing Ki Vincent in straight games to enter the second round of the French Open badminton tournament.&nbsp;

The Indian brushed off a tough challenge in the opening game to clinch a comprehensive 21-19, 21-13 verdict in 42 minutes.

Srikanth will now face the winner of the first round clash between Khosit Phetpradab of Thailand and South Korea's Lee Dong Keun.

India's star badminton player Kidambi Srikanth on Wednesday defeated Hong Kong's Wong Wing Ki Vincent in straight games to enter the second round of the French Open badminton tournament.

India's star badminton player Kidambi Srikanth on Wednesday defeated Hong Kong's Wong Wing Ki Vincent in straight games to enter the second round of the French Open badminton tournament. The Indian brushed off a tough challenge in the opening game to clinch a comprehensive 21-19, 21-13 verdict in 42 minutes. Srikanth will now face the winner of the first round clash between Khosit Phetpradab of Thailand and South Korea's Lee Dong Keun.

Badminton player Kidambi Srikanth advances at French Open

World number two Roger Federer says he is mulling a return to the European clay-court season in 2019 following a two-year absence.

Federer, speaking to ESPN on the sidelines of this weekend's Laver Cup, has skipped the clay-court segment of the season since 2017 in order to conserve energy for Wimbledon and hard-court seasons.

However the 37-year-old revealed he is rethinking his scheduling for next season, and may yet play on clay.

"The clay-court season is under review," Federer told ESPN. "It's not off the table. I will know by the end of the year."

Three ATP Masters events are held on clay as well as several smaller tournaments in the build up to the French Open.

Federer said if he does opt to play the clay-court season it will require a significant tweak of his training regime.

"I would like to make up my mind ahead of time so I can plan my buildup, my fitness schedule, even the way I would approach my December practice sessions," Federer said. "It could benefit the clay-court season.

"This is something that is obviously a big deal. If you play the clay, it changes everything."

Federer has won a record 20 Grand Slam singles titles but clay has been his least favourite surface. His haul of Grand Slam titles includes only one victory at Roland Garros, in 2009, when he completed his career Grand Slam.

He last reached the French Open final in 2011, when he was beaten in four sets by Rafael Nadal.

World number two Roger Federer says he is mulling a return to the European clay-court season in 2019 following a two-year absence. Federer, speaking to ESPN on the sidelines of this weekend's Laver Cup, has skipped the clay-court segment of the season since 2017 in order to conserve energy for Wimbledon and hard-court seasons.

World number two Roger Federer says he is mulling a return to the European clay-court season in 2019 following a two-year absence. Federer, speaking to ESPN on the sidelines of this weekend's Laver Cup, has skipped the clay-court segment of the season since 2017 in order to conserve energy for Wimbledon and hard-court seasons. However the 37-year-old revealed he is rethinking his scheduling for next season, and may yet play on clay. "The clay-court season is under review," Federer told ESPN. "It's not off the table. I will know by the end of the year." Three ATP Masters events are held on clay as well as several smaller tournaments in the build up to the French Open. Federer said if he does opt to play the clay-court season it will require a significant tweak of his training regime. "I would like to make up my mind ahead of time so I can plan my buildup, my fitness schedule, even the way I would approach my December practice sessions," Federer said. "It could benefit the clay-court season. "This is something that is obviously a big deal. If you play the clay, it changes everything." Federer has won a record 20 Grand Slam singles titles but clay has been his least favourite surface. His haul of Grand Slam titles includes only one victory at Roland Garros, in 2009, when he completed his career Grand Slam. He last reached the French Open final in 2011, when he was beaten in four sets by Rafael Nadal.

Federer mulling clay court return in 2019

World number one Rafael&nbspNadal&nbspsaid it was beyond a dream to win his 11th Roland Garros title after defeating Austrian Dominic Thiem in straight sets on Sunday.

"It's amazing now, I can't describe my feelings,"&nbspNadal&nbsptold the crowd on Philippe Chatrier Court moments after capturing his 17th Grand Slam trophy with a 6-4 6-3 6-2 victory.

"It's not even a dream to win here 11 times, because its impossible to think of something like this."

Nadal&nbspsaluted his 24-year-old opponent, who is the only man to have beaten the Spaniard on clay over the past two seasons.

"He's very aggressive, with big shots,"&nbspNadal&nbspsaid in halting French before switching to English.

"I want to say well played to Dominic. He played a great two weeks. He's a good friend, one of these players that the tour needs. I am sure you'll win here in the next couple of years."

The emotional Spaniard wiped away tears as he held on to the Coupe de Mousquetaires.

"Many thanks," he told the crowd. "I hope to see you again next year."

World number one Rafael Nadal said it was beyond a dream to win his 11th Roland Garros title after defeating Austrian Dominic Thiem in straight sets

World number one Rafael&nbspNadal&nbspsaid it was beyond a dream to win his 11th Roland Garros title after defeating Austrian Dominic Thiem in straight sets on Sunday. "It's amazing now, I can't describe my feelings,"&nbspNadal&nbsptold the crowd on Philippe Chatrier Court moments after capturing his 17th Grand Slam trophy with a 6-4 6-3 6-2 victory. "It's not even a dream to win here 11 times, because its impossible to think of something like this." Nadal&nbspsaluted his 24-year-old opponent, who is the only man to have beaten the Spaniard on clay over the past two seasons. "He's very aggressive, with big shots,"&nbspNadal&nbspsaid in halting French before switching to English. "I want to say well played to Dominic. He played a great two weeks. He's a good friend, one of these players that the tour needs. I am sure you'll win here in the next couple of years." The emotional Spaniard wiped away tears as he held on to the Coupe de Mousquetaires. "Many thanks," he told the crowd. "I hope to see you again next year."

It's beyond a dream to win French Open title 11 times: Rafael Nadal

Spanish Tennis star Rafael Nadal on Sunday defeated Australian seventh seed Dominic Thiem 6-4 6-3 6-2 to clinch the 11th French Open title at Roland Garros.

The Spaniard edged an intense opening set, tightening his grip in the second.

And he increased the tempo further, consigning Thiem to defeat in his first major final when the Austrian sent a return long.

Nadal is the only second player in history to win the same Grand Slam on 11 occasions after Margaret Court, who won 11 Australian Open titles between 1960 and 1973.

Nadal dropped his racquet at the baseline in celebration before turning to his box and raising both hands skywards.

The Spaniard had been the hot favourite to win the second Slam of the year, after warming up with three clay-court titles in Monte Carlo, Barcelona and Rome.

Thiem, who is playing in his first Grand Slam final, had very few answers to Nadal's brilliance.

Nadal is the only second player in history to win the same Grand Slam on 11 occasions

Spanish Tennis star Rafael Nadal on Sunday defeated Australian seventh seed Dominic Thiem 6-4 6-3 6-2 to clinch the 11th French Open title at Roland Garros. The Spaniard edged an intense opening set, tightening his grip in the second. And he increased the tempo further, consigning Thiem to defeat in his first major final when the Austrian sent a return long. Nadal is the only second player in history to win the same Grand Slam on 11 occasions after Margaret Court, who won 11 Australian Open titles between 1960 and 1973. Nadal dropped his racquet at the baseline in celebration before turning to his box and raising both hands skywards. The Spaniard had been the hot favourite to win the second Slam of the year, after warming up with three clay-court titles in Monte Carlo, Barcelona and Rome. Thiem, who is playing in his first Grand Slam final, had very few answers to Nadal's brilliance.

Rafael Nadal routs Dominic Thiem to clinch 11th French Open title

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