United States 13th seed Madison Keys defeated Romania's Mihaela Buzarnescu 6-1, 6-4 on Sunday to enter the quarter-finals of the French Open for the first time in her career.

The match lasted for 65 minutes and former US Open finalist, Madison Keys dominated the match against Mihaela Buzarnescu in which the Romanian made 11 unforced errors in the first set and 16 in the second.

Keys will face either Czech 26th seed Barbora Strycova or Yulia Putintseva, the 98th-ranked Kazakh, for a place in the semi-finals.

The 23-year-old American has now reached at least the last-eight of all four majors and has not lost a single set in this year's French Open.

Madison Keys has not lost a single set in this year's French Open

United States 13th seed Madison Keys defeated Romania's Mihaela Buzarnescu 6-1, 6-4 on Sunday to enter the quarter-finals of the French Open for the first time in her career. The match lasted for 65 minutes and former US Open finalist, Madison Keys dominated the match against Mihaela Buzarnescu in which the Romanian made 11 unforced errors in the first set and 16 in the second. Keys will face either Czech 26th seed Barbora Strycova or Yulia Putintseva, the 98th-ranked Kazakh, for a place in the semi-finals. The 23-year-old American has now reached at least the last-eight of all four majors and has not lost a single set in this year's French Open.

French Open: Madison Keys beats Mihaela Buzarnescu to enter quarter-finals for the first time

Italian Tennis player Fabio Fognini survived a five-set thriller against British number one Kyle Edmund to reach the fourth round of the French Open on Saturday. &nbsp;

Edmund lost 6-3 4-6 3-6 6-4 6-4 in a fluctuating contest with the 18th seed at Roland Garros.

Edmund's level also fluctuated throughout the three-hour 34 minute contest in which both players needed medical timeouts.

The 23-year-old Edmund has reached his first Grand Slam semi-final and broken into the world's top 20 for the first time this year.

But the 16th seed could not break new ground on his preferred surface.

Fognini, 31, will play either Croatian third seed Marin Cilic or American Steve Johnson in the fourth round. 
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Edmund lost 6-3 4-6 3-6 6-4 6-4 in a fluctuating contest with the 18th seed

Italian Tennis player Fabio Fognini survived a five-set thriller against British number one Kyle Edmund to reach the fourth round of the French Open on Saturday. Edmund lost 6-3 4-6 3-6 6-4 6-4 in a fluctuating contest with the 18th seed at Roland Garros. Edmund's level also fluctuated throughout the three-hour 34 minute contest in which both players needed medical timeouts. The 23-year-old Edmund has reached his first Grand Slam semi-final and broken into the world's top 20 for the first time this year. But the 16th seed could not break new ground on his preferred surface. Fognini, 31, will play either Croatian third seed Marin Cilic or American Steve Johnson in the fourth round.

French Open: Fognini beats Kyle Edmund to reach last 16 at Roland Garros

Serena Williams

Serena Williams battled back from a set and break down to defeat Australia's Ashleigh Barty 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 to reach the French Open third round on Thursday.

The three-time champion and former world number one, dressed again in her all-black catsuit, is playing her first Slam since winning the 2017 Australian Open while two months pregnant.

The 36-year-old, seeking a 24th Grand Slam title, will face Germany's Julia Goerges for a place in the last 16.

If she gets past the third round, Williams could face old rival Maria Sharapova for a place in the quarter-finals.

"It's just incredible," said Williams.

"I am so happy to be back here. I lost the first set and thought I must try harder, I must try harder and then Serena came out.

"I will be back tomorrow to play doubles with Venus. I don't mind playing singles and doubles -- I will fight my heart out."

Williams, playing in her first Slam since winning 2017 Australian Open while two months pregnant, had cruised through her opening round match against Kristyna Pliskova in what was a record 317th win at the Slams.

But Thursday was a tougher proposition for the 36-year-old American who was playing just her sixth match of 2018.

Williams appeared once again in her striking, all-black catsuit.

However, her game failed to match her impressive outfit in the first set where she was broken in the sixth game by the Australian.

Barty wrapped it up when the American netted a weary-looking forehand, the 12th unforced error of the set for the 23-time major winner.

Williams hit just three winners in the opener while 22-year-old Barty could afford to bide her time, just two winners and four unforced errors.&nbsp

She was a break down again after dropping serve in the opening game of the second set.

But just as the half-full crowd enjoying the late evening sunshine in Court Philippe Chatrier anticipated a quick kill, Williams came storming back, reeling off four straight games for 4-1.

A fifth ace of the contest won her the set.

A break in the third game of the decider proved crucial and Williams now ranked 451 in the world, claimed victory on a second match point with a sweeping, running forehand.

Maria&nbspSharapova

Sharapova, the champion in Paris in 2012 and 2014, saw off Donna Vekic 7-5, 6-4 in a tie which featured 10 breaks of serve and secured on a fifth match point.

Former world number one Sharapova, seeded 28 this year, will face Czech sixth seed Karolina Pliskova for a place in the fourth round.

"She won a big title in Stuttgart, so I have to be ready for this match and I'll be ready," said Sharapova of Pliskova, a player she defeated in their only previous meeting in the 2015 Fed Cup final.

The Russian star is playing in Paris for the first time since a quarter-final run in 2015. She served a doping ban in 2016 and was refused a wild card last year.

Rafael Nadal​​​​​​​

Ten-time champion Rafael Nadal breezed into the third round and a clash against childhood friend Richard Gasquet.

Top seed and world number one Nadal, chasing an 11th title, swept past Argentinian Guido Pella 6-2, 6-1, 6-1, showing no signs of the brief struggles he faced in the first round against lucky loser Simone Bolelli.

The 31-year-old will next face home favourite, and his old junior rival Gasquet, whom he has beaten 15 times from as many meetings in professional tennis.

"Richard is a very good friend. We've known each other since we were 11 or 12 years old so it will be very special to play again against him," said the champion.

Simona Halep

Top seed Simona Halep reached the third round with a comfortable 6-3, 6-1 win over Taylor Townsend of the United States.

Halep, twice a runner-up in Paris, will face Germany's Andrea Petkovic for a place in the last 16.

Garbine Muguruza

Spanish third seed Garbine Muguruza, the 2016 champion, was too strong for France's number 257 Fiona Ferro 6-4, 6-3.

Marin Cilic and Dominic Thiem

Title challengers Marin Cilic and Dominic Thiem struggled into the last 32.

Third seed Cilic reached the third round for the eighth time with a 6-2, 6-2, 6-7 (3/7), 7-5 win over Polish qualifier and world number 188 Hubert Hurkacz.

Seventh-seeded Thiem, a semi-finalist in 2016 and 2017, racked up his 31st win of the year.

The Austrian, the only man to beat Nadal on clay this year, saw off Greek teenager Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-2, 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 in a match which had been suspended overnight after the third set.

Serena Williams battled back from a set and break down to defeat Australia's Ashleigh Barty 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 to reach the French Open third round on Thursday.

Serena Williams Serena Williams battled back from a set and break down to defeat Australia's Ashleigh Barty 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 to reach the French Open third round on Thursday. The three-time champion and former world number one, dressed again in her all-black catsuit, is playing her first Slam since winning the 2017 Australian Open while two months pregnant. The 36-year-old, seeking a 24th Grand Slam title, will face Germany's Julia Goerges for a place in the last 16. If she gets past the third round, Williams could face old rival Maria Sharapova for a place in the quarter-finals. "It's just incredible," said Williams. "I am so happy to be back here. I lost the first set and thought I must try harder, I must try harder and then Serena came out. "I will be back tomorrow to play doubles with Venus. I don't mind playing singles and doubles -- I will fight my heart out." Williams, playing in her first Slam since winning 2017 Australian Open while two months pregnant, had cruised through her opening round match against Kristyna Pliskova in what was a record 317th win at the Slams. But Thursday was a tougher proposition for the 36-year-old American who was playing just her sixth match of 2018. Williams appeared once again in her striking, all-black catsuit. However, her game failed to match her impressive outfit in the first set where she was broken in the sixth game by the Australian. Barty wrapped it up when the American netted a weary-looking forehand, the 12th unforced error of the set for the 23-time major winner. Williams hit just three winners in the opener while 22-year-old Barty could afford to bide her time, just two winners and four unforced errors. She was a break down again after dropping serve in the opening game of the second set. But just as the half-full crowd enjoying the late evening sunshine in Court Philippe Chatrier anticipated a quick kill, Williams came storming back, reeling off four straight games for 4-1. A fifth ace of the contest won her the set. A break in the third game of the decider proved crucial and Williams now ranked 451 in the world, claimed victory on a second match point with a sweeping, running forehand. Maria&nbspSharapova Sharapova, the champion in Paris in 2012 and 2014, saw off Donna Vekic 7-5, 6-4 in a tie which featured 10 breaks of serve and secured on a fifth match point. Former world number one Sharapova, seeded 28 this year, will face Czech sixth seed Karolina Pliskova for a place in the fourth round. "She won a big title in Stuttgart, so I have to be ready for this match and I'll be ready," said Sharapova of Pliskova, a player she defeated in their only previous meeting in the 2015 Fed Cup final. The Russian star is playing in Paris for the first time since a quarter-final run in 2015. She served a doping ban in 2016 and was refused a wild card last year. Rafael Nadal Ten-time champion Rafael Nadal breezed into the third round and a clash against childhood friend Richard Gasquet. Top seed and world number one Nadal, chasing an 11th title, swept past Argentinian Guido Pella 6-2, 6-1, 6-1, showing no signs of the brief struggles he faced in the first round against lucky loser Simone Bolelli. The 31-year-old will next face home favourite, and his old junior rival Gasquet, whom he has beaten 15 times from as many meetings in professional tennis. "Richard is a very good friend. We've known each other since we were 11 or 12 years old so it will be very special to play again against him," said the champion. Simona Halep Top seed Simona Halep reached the third round with a comfortable 6-3, 6-1 win over Taylor Townsend of the United States. Halep, twice a runner-up in Paris, will face Germany's Andrea Petkovic for a place in the last 16. Garbine Muguruza Spanish third seed Garbine Muguruza, the 2016 champion, was too strong for France's number 257 Fiona Ferro 6-4, 6-3. Marin Cilic and Dominic Thiem Title challengers Marin Cilic and Dominic Thiem struggled into the last 32. Third seed Cilic reached the third round for the eighth time with a 6-2, 6-2, 6-7 (3/7), 7-5 win over Polish qualifier and world number 188 Hubert Hurkacz. Seventh-seeded Thiem, a semi-finalist in 2016 and 2017, racked up his 31st win of the year. The Austrian, the only man to beat Nadal on clay this year, saw off Greek teenager Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-2, 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 in a match which had been suspended overnight after the third set.

French Open: 'Serena came out' - Williams fights back as Nadal, Sharapova cruise

Grigor Dimitrov bt Jared Donaldson 6-7 (2/7), 6-4, 4-6, 6-4

Fourth seed Grigor Dimitrov clinched a marathon 6-7 (2/7), 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, 10-8 victory over American Jared Donaldson to book a last-32 spot at Roland Garros on Wednesday.

The Bulgarian was pushed all the way by world number 57 Donaldson in a match that lasted four hours and 19 minutes, but grabbed the crucial break in the 17th game of the deciding set as his opponent started to struggle with cramp.

Dimitrov will face dangerous Spaniard Fernando Verdasco next as he looks to reach the fourth round in Paris for the first time.

Alexander Zverev bt Dusan Lajovic 2-6, 7-5, 4-6, 6-1, 6-2

Alexander Zverev staged a fightback to win a five-setter with Dusan Lajovic.

German world number three Zverev found himself in deep trouble when trailing by two sets to one against Lajovic, but the Serbian ran out of gas as it finished 2-6, 7-5, 4-6, 6-1, 6-2.

The 21-year-old, a winner of three Masters titles, is yet to reach a Grand Slam quarter-final and was knocked out in the first round at Roland Garros last year.

But Zverev moved into round three for the second time, where he will play Bosnian 26th seed Damir Dzumhur, as he looks to become the first German man to win the title since 1937.

Kei Nishikori bt Benoit Paire 6-3, 2-6, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3

Japan's Kei Nishikori also staged a comeback to edge out Frenchman Benoit Paire on Philippe Chatrier court, winning 6-3, 2-6, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3 in his first Grand Slam event since Wimbledon last year after recovering from a wrist injury.

Grigor Dimitrov, Alexander Zverev, Kei Nishikori have entered the third round at French Open on Wednesday

Grigor Dimitrov bt Jared Donaldson 6-7 (2/7), 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 Fourth seed Grigor Dimitrov clinched a marathon 6-7 (2/7), 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, 10-8 victory over American Jared Donaldson to book a last-32 spot at Roland Garros on Wednesday. The Bulgarian was pushed all the way by world number 57 Donaldson in a match that lasted four hours and 19 minutes, but grabbed the crucial break in the 17th game of the deciding set as his opponent started to struggle with cramp. Dimitrov will face dangerous Spaniard Fernando Verdasco next as he looks to reach the fourth round in Paris for the first time. Alexander Zverev bt Dusan Lajovic 2-6, 7-5, 4-6, 6-1, 6-2 Alexander Zverev staged a fightback to win a five-setter with Dusan Lajovic. German world number three Zverev found himself in deep trouble when trailing by two sets to one against Lajovic, but the Serbian ran out of gas as it finished 2-6, 7-5, 4-6, 6-1, 6-2. The 21-year-old, a winner of three Masters titles, is yet to reach a Grand Slam quarter-final and was knocked out in the first round at Roland Garros last year. But Zverev moved into round three for the second time, where he will play Bosnian 26th seed Damir Dzumhur, as he looks to become the first German man to win the title since 1937. Kei Nishikori bt Benoit Paire 6-3, 2-6, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3 Japan's Kei Nishikori also staged a comeback to edge out Frenchman Benoit Paire on Philippe Chatrier court, winning 6-3, 2-6, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3 in his first Grand Slam event since Wimbledon last year after recovering from a wrist injury.

Dimitrov, Zverev, Nishikori reach round 3rd at Roland-Garros

Caroline Wozniacki bt Georgina Garcia Perez 6-1, 6-0

Second seed Caroline Wozniacki cruised into the French Open third round on Wednesday with a 6-1, 6-0 thrashing of Spanish qualifier Georgina Garcia Perez.

Reigning Australian Open champion Wozniacki, who can regain the world number one ranking from Simona Halep by winning a second Grand Slam title in Paris, will next play the winner of the all-French clash between Alize Cornet and Pauline Parmentier.

World number 219 Garcia Perez, 26, was playing in the main draw of a major tournament for the first time and was totally outclassed on Court Philippe Chatrier, as Denmark's Wozniacki won in just 51 minutes.

Elina Svitolina bt Viktoria Kuzmova 6-3, 6-4

Ukrainian fourth seed Elina Svitolina reached the last 32 for the fourth straight year by brushing aside Viktoria Kuzmova in straight sets. The 23-year-old, who arrived in Paris having won her second straight Italian Open title, saw off her Slovakian opponent 6-3, 6-4 and will next take on Romanian 31st seed Mihaela Buzarnescu.

Naomi Osaka bt Zarina Diyas 6-4, 7-5

Charismatic Japanese 21st seed Naomi Osaka came through a tight match with Kazakhstan's Zarina Diyas 6-4, 7-5.

The 20-year-old Osaka is seeded for the first time at a major tournament, having lifted the prestigious Indian Wells title earlier this year before beating Serena Williams in Miami the following week.

Caroline Wozniacki, Naomi Osaka and Elina Svitolina reached the third round at Roland-Garros

Caroline Wozniacki bt Georgina Garcia Perez 6-1, 6-0 Second seed Caroline Wozniacki cruised into the French Open third round on Wednesday with a 6-1, 6-0 thrashing of Spanish qualifier Georgina Garcia Perez. Reigning Australian Open champion Wozniacki, who can regain the world number one ranking from Simona Halep by winning a second Grand Slam title in Paris, will next play the winner of the all-French clash between Alize Cornet and Pauline Parmentier. World number 219 Garcia Perez, 26, was playing in the main draw of a major tournament for the first time and was totally outclassed on Court Philippe Chatrier, as Denmark's Wozniacki won in just 51 minutes. Elina Svitolina bt Viktoria Kuzmova 6-3, 6-4 Ukrainian fourth seed Elina Svitolina reached the last 32 for the fourth straight year by brushing aside Viktoria Kuzmova in straight sets. The 23-year-old, who arrived in Paris having won her second straight Italian Open title, saw off her Slovakian opponent 6-3, 6-4 and will next take on Romanian 31st seed Mihaela Buzarnescu. Naomi Osaka bt Zarina Diyas 6-4, 7-5 Charismatic Japanese 21st seed Naomi Osaka came through a tight match with Kazakhstan's Zarina Diyas 6-4, 7-5. The 20-year-old Osaka is seeded for the first time at a major tournament, having lifted the prestigious Indian Wells title earlier this year before beating Serena Williams in Miami the following week.

French Open: Wozniacki, Osaka, Svitolina enter women's singles 3rd round

Garbine Muguruza cruised past French wildcard player Fiona Ferro 6-4 6-3 on Thursday, booking her place in the French Open third round.

The Spaniard sealed the match with a whipped cross-court forehand, though for much of the match the number three seed struggled to find her rhythm and range on the forehand.

Muguruza, who won at Roland Garros in 2016 and heads to Wimbledon this year as defending champion, had not played 21-year-old Ferro before Thursday's encounter.

"She's young and she's talented," Muguruza said in a post-match interview on court Suzanne Lenglen. "These matches are very difficult."

Muguruza arrived in Paris as one of five women with a chance of claiming the world number one spot.

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"All I want is to go out there, compete & win. I'm happy with fighting, do whatever I can, to eventually win the point. That's all that matters. If you play good & beautiful, everybody feels better, but at the end just counts the result."<a href="https://twitter.com/GarbiMuguruza?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GarbiMuguruza</a> is a fighter.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG18?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG18</a> <a href="https://t.co/9jeVINbkgn">pic.twitter.com/9jeVINbkgn</a>
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Her form leading up to the clay-court Grand Slam was mixed, exiting the Madrid Open in the third round and suffering a defeat in her opening match of the Rome Open. But she said she felt good in Paris.

"The French Open is the tournament for me. My body is good and my tennis is following," she said.

Muguruza hit 26 winners and 23 unforced errors, often over-cooking her forehand from the baseline.

She eases into the third round for the fifth consecutive year and will face the winner of the match between 2010 French Open runner-up Samantha Stosur of Australia and 30-seed Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia.

Garbine Muguruza cruised past French wildcard player Fiona Ferro 6-4 6-3 on Thursday, booking her place in the French Open third round

Garbine Muguruza cruised past French wildcard player Fiona Ferro 6-4 6-3 on Thursday, booking her place in the French Open third round. The Spaniard sealed the match with a whipped cross-court forehand, though for much of the match the number three seed struggled to find her rhythm and range on the forehand. Muguruza, who won at Roland Garros in 2016 and heads to Wimbledon this year as defending champion, had not played 21-year-old Ferro before Thursday's encounter. "She's young and she's talented," Muguruza said in a post-match interview on court Suzanne Lenglen. "These matches are very difficult." Muguruza arrived in Paris as one of five women with a chance of claiming the world number one spot. "All I want is to go out there, compete & win. I'm happy with fighting, do whatever I can, to eventually win the point. That's all that matters. If you play good & beautiful, everybody feels better, but at the end just counts the result."@GarbiMuguruza is a fighter.#RG18 pic.twitter.com/9jeVINbkgn — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 31, 2018 × Her form leading up to the clay-court Grand Slam was mixed, exiting the Madrid Open in the third round and suffering a defeat in her opening match of the Rome Open. But she said she felt good in Paris. "The French Open is the tournament for me. My body is good and my tennis is following," she said. Muguruza hit 26 winners and 23 unforced errors, often over-cooking her forehand from the baseline. She eases into the third round for the fifth consecutive year and will face the winner of the match between 2010 French Open runner-up Samantha Stosur of Australia and 30-seed Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia.

French Open: Garbine Muguruza defeat Fiona Ferro 6-4 6-3 to enter 3rd round

Alexander Zverev has found a new love for the Yorkshire accent after surviving the second round at&nbsp;Roland-Garros. He defeated&nbsp;Lajovic in sets and move forward to the next round of the competition.

German star Zverev seemed relaxed and confident during his post-match press interaction and particularly enjoyed hearing the Yorkshire accent.

A reporter asked a question and Zverev gave an unusual response, he said, "Where you from, buddy?" and after that the conversation became interesting, watch the video:

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Zverev struggling with the Yorkshire accent. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG18?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG18</a> <a href="https://t.co/p9h0IepaPo">pic.twitter.com/p9h0IepaPo</a>
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Alexander Zverev: "Where you from, buddy?"

Reporter: "Do you want to guess? Yorkshire in England."

Alexander Zverev: "Nice. If I ever make a tournament there I'm coming just because of that accent. Love it. I didn't understand a word you're saying, but it's not important."

Reporter: "You clearly enjoy your tennis."

Alexander Zverev: "Not as much as your accent, buddy. I love that."

Reporter: "I will come to all your press conferences now."

Alexander Zverev: "I love that."

German world number three Zverev found himself in deep trouble when trailing by two sets to one against Lajovic, but the Serbian ran out of gas as it finished 2-6, 7-5, 4-6, 6-1, 6-2.

But Zverev moved into round three for the second time, where he will play Bosnian 26th seed Damir Dzumhur, as he looks to become the first German man to win the title since 1937.

Alexander Zverev found a new love for the Yorkshire accent after surviving the scare of the second round to move forward to the next round of Roland-Garros

Alexander Zverev has found a new love for the Yorkshire accent after surviving the second round at Roland-Garros. He defeated Lajovic in sets and move forward to the next round of the competition. German star Zverev seemed relaxed and confident during his post-match press interaction and particularly enjoyed hearing the Yorkshire accent. A reporter asked a question and Zverev gave an unusual response, he said, "Where you from, buddy?" and after that the conversation became interesting, watch the video: Zverev struggling with the Yorkshire accent. #RG18 pic.twitter.com/p9h0IepaPo — ㅤㅤㅤ (@Dani___Alves) May 31, 2018 × Alexander Zverev: "Where you from, buddy?" Reporter: "Do you want to guess? Yorkshire in England." Alexander Zverev: "Nice. If I ever make a tournament there I'm coming just because of that accent. Love it. I didn't understand a word you're saying, but it's not important." Reporter: "You clearly enjoy your tennis." Alexander Zverev: "Not as much as your accent, buddy. I love that." Reporter: "I will come to all your press conferences now." Alexander Zverev: "I love that." German world number three Zverev found himself in deep trouble when trailing by two sets to one against Lajovic, but the Serbian ran out of gas as it finished 2-6, 7-5, 4-6, 6-1, 6-2. But Zverev moved into round three for the second time, where he will play Bosnian 26th seed Damir Dzumhur, as he looks to become the first German man to win the title since 1937.

Watch: Alexander Zverev's hilarious response to Yorkshire accent

The Indian pair of Yuki Bhambri and Divij Sharan romped through to the men's doubles second round of the French Open after defeating Fabrice Martin and Purav Raja at Court 16 on Wednesday.

Earlier in the competition, Yuki Bhambri lost to 111th-ranked Ruben Bemelmans of Belgium 4-6,4-6, 1-6 in the men's singles match.

Bhambri and Sharan will now meet second seeds Oliver Marach and Mate Pavic in the second round.

Also, Rohan Bopanna with his partner Edouard Roger-Vasselin will clash with Benjamin Bonzi and Gregoire Jacq in the mixed doubles second round on Thursday.

&nbsp

&nbsp

Bhambri and Sharan will now meet second seeds Oliver Marach and Mate Pavic in the second round

The Indian pair of Yuki Bhambri and Divij Sharan romped through to the men's doubles second round of the French Open after defeating Fabrice Martin and Purav Raja at Court 16 on Wednesday. Earlier in the competition, Yuki Bhambri lost to 111th-ranked Ruben Bemelmans of Belgium 4-6,4-6, 1-6 in the men's singles match. Bhambri and Sharan will now meet second seeds Oliver Marach and Mate Pavic in the second round. Also, Rohan Bopanna with his partner Edouard Roger-Vasselin will clash with Benjamin Bonzi and Gregoire Jacq in the mixed doubles second round on Thursday.

French Open: Yuki Bhambri, Divij Sharan advance to 2nd round

Novak Djokovic defeated the Jaume Munar of Spain 7-6 (7/1), 6-4, 6-4 on Court Suzanne Lenglen to enter the third round of French Open for the consecutive 13th year. Novak has been struggling with his form since he underwent surgery on his elbow after January's Australian Open. Although, he won but he was not looking comfortable on the court.

Twelve-time Grand Slam champion fired 39 winners but 33 unforced errors and was broken three times by Munar, the world 155.

"I am very happy to be here on Suzanne Lenglen and see so many people and see the support," said Djokovic.

"Jaume is a great player, he has lots of quality and good concentration. I congratulate him on a great match today."

Earlier today, Petra Kvitova entered third round after defeating Lara Arruabarrena and world number one Simona Halep romped through the second round of Roland-Garros.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> loves the Lenglen crowd...and getting 7-6(1) 6-4 6-4 win over Jaume Munar.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG18?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG18</a> <a href="https://t.co/gt3uHJy2HQ">pic.twitter.com/gt3uHJy2HQ</a>
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Novak Djokovic defeated the Jaume Munar of Spain 7-6 (7/1), 6-4, 6-4 on Court Suzanne Lenglen to enter the third round of French Open

Novak Djokovic defeated the Jaume Munar of Spain 7-6 (7/1), 6-4, 6-4 on Court Suzanne Lenglen to enter the third round of French Open for the consecutive 13th year. Novak has been struggling with his form since he underwent surgery on his elbow after January's Australian Open. Although, he won but he was not looking comfortable on the court. Twelve-time Grand Slam champion fired 39 winners but 33 unforced errors and was broken three times by Munar, the world 155. "I am very happy to be here on Suzanne Lenglen and see so many people and see the support," said Djokovic. "Jaume is a great player, he has lots of quality and good concentration. I congratulate him on a great match today." Earlier today, Petra Kvitova entered third round after defeating Lara Arruabarrena and world number one Simona Halep romped through the second round of Roland-Garros. .@DjokerNole loves the Lenglen crowd...and getting 7-6(1) 6-4 6-4 win over Jaume Munar.#RG18 pic.twitter.com/gt3uHJy2HQ — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 30, 2018 ×

French Open: Novak Djokovic defeats Rogerio Silva to enter 3rd round

Eighth seed Petra Kvitova eased into the third round with a 6-0, 6-4 victory over Spain's Lara Arruabarrena on Court One. The two-time Wimbledon champion has now won 13 consecutive matches on clay after claiming titles in Prague and Madrid and will face Estonia's 25th seed Anett Kontaveit for a place in the last 16. Czech Kvitova has not reached the quarter-finals at Roland Garros since a run to the last four in 2012. The 28-year-old raced through the opening set in only 24 minutes, and although she was pegged back after an early break in the second, a booming forehand sealed victory with a third straight game.

Ukrainian fourth seed Elina Svitolina reached the last 32 for the fourth consecutive year by brushing aside Viktoria Kuzmova in straight sets.

The 23-year-old, who arrived in Paris having won her second straight Italian Open title, saw off her Slovakian opponent 6-3, 6-4.

Svitolina, a two-time quarter-finalist at Roland Garros, will take on Romanian 31st seed Mihaela Buzarnescu in the last 32.

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Lucky #️⃣1️⃣3️⃣<a href="https://twitter.com/Petra_Kvitova?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Petra_Kvitova</a> notches her 13th consecutive match win, blasting past Arruabarrena 6-0 6-4 to book her spot in the 3R.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG18?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG18</a> <a href="https://t.co/fAMEeK0IWY">pic.twitter.com/fAMEeK0IWY</a>
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Elsewhere, charismatic Japanese 21st seed Naomi Osaka came through a tight match with Kazakhstan's Zarina Diyas 6-4, 7-5.

The 20-year-old Osaka is seeded for the first time at a major tournament, having lifted the prestigious Indian Wells title earlier this year before beating Serena Williams in Miami the following week.

Williams, who made her Grand Slam return with a singles win on Tuesday, is back in action in the doubles with sister Venus later on Wednesday.

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That winning moment. ?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG18?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG18</a> <a href="https://t.co/NXFQqiKiBo">pic.twitter.com/NXFQqiKiBo</a>
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&nbsp

Eighth seed Petra Kvitova eased into the third round with a 6-0, 6-4 victory over Spain's Lara Arruabarrena on Court One

Eighth seed Petra Kvitova eased into the third round with a 6-0, 6-4 victory over Spain's Lara Arruabarrena on Court One. The two-time Wimbledon champion has now won 13 consecutive matches on clay after claiming titles in Prague and Madrid and will face Estonia's 25th seed Anett Kontaveit for a place in the last 16. Czech Kvitova has not reached the quarter-finals at Roland Garros since a run to the last four in 2012. The 28-year-old raced through the opening set in only 24 minutes, and although she was pegged back after an early break in the second, a booming forehand sealed victory with a third straight game. Ukrainian fourth seed Elina Svitolina reached the last 32 for the fourth consecutive year by brushing aside Viktoria Kuzmova in straight sets. The 23-year-old, who arrived in Paris having won her second straight Italian Open title, saw off her Slovakian opponent 6-3, 6-4. Svitolina, a two-time quarter-finalist at Roland Garros, will take on Romanian 31st seed Mihaela Buzarnescu in the last 32. Lucky #️⃣1️⃣3️⃣@Petra_Kvitova notches her 13th consecutive match win, blasting past Arruabarrena 6-0 6-4 to book her spot in the 3R.#RG18 pic.twitter.com/fAMEeK0IWY — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 30, 2018 × Elsewhere, charismatic Japanese 21st seed Naomi Osaka came through a tight match with Kazakhstan's Zarina Diyas 6-4, 7-5. The 20-year-old Osaka is seeded for the first time at a major tournament, having lifted the prestigious Indian Wells title earlier this year before beating Serena Williams in Miami the following week. Williams, who made her Grand Slam return with a singles win on Tuesday, is back in action in the doubles with sister Venus later on Wednesday. That winning moment. ?#RG18 pic.twitter.com/NXFQqiKiBo — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 30, 2018 ×

French Open: Petra Kvitova enters 3rd round after defeating Lara Arruabarrena

World number one Simona Halep battled back after a disastrous opening set to beat Alison Riske 2-6, 6-1, 6-1 in their delayed French Open first-round match on Wednesday. Halep, the runner-up in Paris in 2014 and 2017, slumped 0-5 down in the opening set to world number 83 Riske whose only win at the tournament came in 2014. The Romanian committed 16 unforced errors in the set but stepped up a gear from that point on to book a second-round match against Taylor Townsend of the United States.

"It's always difficult in the first round of a Grand Slam, you are always nervous," said Halep.

"But I started to run more, played better and kept more balls in play."

The 26-year-old, who is still looking for a first Grand Slam title, will play for the second straight day on Thursday after the match with Riske was pushed back from Tuesday due to rain.

"I think I'll be ready tomorrow, I feel strong in my legs," said the top seed.

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Simona Survives 
 
World No.1 <a href="https://twitter.com/Simona_Halep?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Simona_Halep</a> scores roller-coaster 2-6 6-1 6-1 win over Riske to reach 2R.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG18?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG18</a> <a href="https://t.co/NvVxpPkjAc">pic.twitter.com/NvVxpPkjAc</a>
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"Anything can happen with the rain so all we can do is rest and try to be at our best when we step on the court."

Halep needs to reach the semi-finals or better if she is to retain the world top spot.

World number one Simona Halep battled back after a disastrous opening set to beat Alison Riske 2-6, 6-1, 6-1 in their delayed French Open first-round match

World number one Simona Halep battled back after a disastrous opening set to beat Alison Riske 2-6, 6-1, 6-1 in their delayed French Open first-round match on Wednesday. Halep, the runner-up in Paris in 2014 and 2017, slumped 0-5 down in the opening set to world number 83 Riske whose only win at the tournament came in 2014. The Romanian committed 16 unforced errors in the set but stepped up a gear from that point on to book a second-round match against Taylor Townsend of the United States. "It's always difficult in the first round of a Grand Slam, you are always nervous," said Halep. "But I started to run more, played better and kept more balls in play." The 26-year-old, who is still looking for a first Grand Slam title, will play for the second straight day on Thursday after the match with Riske was pushed back from Tuesday due to rain. "I think I'll be ready tomorrow, I feel strong in my legs," said the top seed. Simona Survives World No.1 @Simona_Halep scores roller-coaster 2-6 6-1 6-1 win over Riske to reach 2R.#RG18 pic.twitter.com/NvVxpPkjAc — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 30, 2018 × "Anything can happen with the rain so all we can do is rest and try to be at our best when we step on the court." Halep needs to reach the semi-finals or better if she is to retain the world top spot.

Simona Halep survives first-round of Roland-Garros, beats Alison Riske 2-6, 6-1, 6-1

Serena Williams marked an astounding Grand Slam return by defeating Kristyna Pliskova 7-6 (7-4) 6-4 and romped through the second round at the Roland Garros on Tuesday.

Dressed in a skintight, all-in-one black bodysuit, broken up by a vivid scarlet belt, Serena captivated the French crowd from the start of the contest.

After winning the match, former world number one said that she felt like a "superhero" in the black catsuit that she wore during the match.

The temperature hit 25C in Paris but it did not seem to affect the Serena in her come back match.

Serena interacted with media after the match and said, "It was comfortable to wear."

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Catsuit anyone? For all the moms out there who had a tough recovery from pregnancy—here you go. If I can do it, so can you. Love you all!! <a href="https://t.co/xXb3BKDGNF">pic.twitter.com/xXb3BKDGNF</a>
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She also revealed the reason for wearing such unusual attire and said that the outfit helped her cope with the issue of blood clots that had almost cost her life in February.

"I had a lot of problems with those - I don't know how many I have had in the past 12 months," she said. "It definitely has little functionality to it.

"It's a fun suit, but it's also functional so I'm able to play without any problems."

She also added the fun fact behind the 'superhero suit' and said, "I feel like a warrior wearing it, a queen from Wakanda (Wakanda is a fictional character of Black Panther movie) maybe."

"I'm always living in a fantasy world. I always wanted to be a superhero, and it's kind of my way of being a superhero."

Serena will play next against the three-time champion is Australian 17th seed Ashleigh Barty in the second round.

The outfit helped her cope with the issue of blood clots that had almost cost her life in February

Serena Williams marked an astounding Grand Slam return by defeating Kristyna Pliskova 7-6 (7-4) 6-4 and romped through the second round at the Roland Garros on Tuesday. Dressed in a skintight, all-in-one black bodysuit, broken up by a vivid scarlet belt, Serena captivated the French crowd from the start of the contest. After winning the match, former world number one said that she felt like a "superhero" in the black catsuit that she wore during the match. The temperature hit 25C in Paris but it did not seem to affect the Serena in her come back match. Serena interacted with media after the match and said, "It was comfortable to wear." Catsuit anyone? For all the moms out there who had a tough recovery from pregnancy—here you go. If I can do it, so can you. Love you all!! pic.twitter.com/xXb3BKDGNF — Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) May 29, 2018 × She also revealed the reason for wearing such unusual attire and said that the outfit helped her cope with the issue of blood clots that had almost cost her life in February. "I had a lot of problems with those - I don't know how many I have had in the past 12 months," she said. "It definitely has little functionality to it. "It's a fun suit, but it's also functional so I'm able to play without any problems." She also added the fun fact behind the 'superhero suit' and said, "I feel like a warrior wearing it, a queen from Wakanda (Wakanda is a fictional character of Black Panther movie) maybe." "I'm always living in a fantasy world. I always wanted to be a superhero, and it's kind of my way of being a superhero." Serena will play next against the three-time champion is Australian 17th seed Ashleigh Barty in the second round.

Serena Williams reveals reason of wearing 'superhero-like' black catsuit

Three-time champion Serena Williams returns to Grand Slam tennis on Tuesday and will play against Kristyna Pliskova in the Round of 128 on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Former world number one has not played any major tournament after winning the Australian Open 2017. She was able to use her protected ranking to enter the French Open.

Serena has since crashed to 453 in the world as a result, however, she can use the initial rounds to improve her ranking.

The former world number one briefly returned for the American hardcourt season but suffered early losses to sister Venus and Naomi Osaka in Indian Wells and Miami respectively.

Also, current world number one Simona Halep, chasing a maiden grand slam crown, will start her campaign against American Alison Riske.

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It’s National Heat Awareness Day, grab your <a href="https://twitter.com/MissionAthlete?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@missionathlete</a> MAX cooling towel and stay cool and safe all summer long! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/onamission?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#onamission</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/heatsquad?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#heatsquad</a> <a href="https://t.co/d4cYQz9cCz">pic.twitter.com/d4cYQz9cCz</a>
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&nbsp

The former world one last played a major tournament in a victorious 2017 Australian Open campaign

Three-time champion Serena Williams returns to Grand Slam tennis on Tuesday and will play against Kristyna Pliskova in the Round of 128 on Court Philippe Chatrier. Former world number one has not played any major tournament after winning the Australian Open 2017. She was able to use her protected ranking to enter the French Open. Serena has since crashed to 453 in the world as a result, however, she can use the initial rounds to improve her ranking. The former world number one briefly returned for the American hardcourt season but suffered early losses to sister Venus and Naomi Osaka in Indian Wells and Miami respectively. Also, current world number one Simona Halep, chasing a maiden grand slam crown, will start her campaign against American Alison Riske. It’s National Heat Awareness Day, grab your @missionathlete MAX cooling towel and stay cool and safe all summer long! #onamission #heatsquad pic.twitter.com/d4cYQz9cCz — Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) May 25, 2018 ×

French Open: Serena Williams set for Grand Slam return

Serena Williams&#39;&nbsp;return to the Women&#39;s Tennis Association (WTA) Tour following the birth of her first child will be the &quot;greatest challenge&quot; of her career, but the American can get back to her best in time for the French Open, according to her coach Patrick Mouratoglou.&quot;

Williams, who won her 23rd grand slam title at last year&#39;s Australian Open before going on maternity leave, pulled out of this year`s tournament in Melbourne.

She represented the United States in a Fed Cup doubles match last month and is scheduled to take part in the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells this week.

Asked if her latest comeback represented the biggest test of her career, Mouratoglou said: &quot;It probably is... now she is 36, just had a child, a second blood clot, has gone more than a year without any competition. I think we can say without a doubt that this is her biggest challenge.&quot;

Former world number one Williams, who returned in 2012 from surgery for a life-threatening blood clot on her lung and climbed back to the top of the rankings, said she almost died after giving birth to her daughter in September.

Mouratoglou said fans had to give Williams time to adjust to the rigors of the sport.

&quot;I think she`ll be ready for Roland Garros. The competitions she will play until then will help her and every day she progresses on her fitness,&quot; he told the Women&#39;s Tennis Association website

&quot;Serena&#39;s target will be to win grand slams. She knows that coming back might take some time, but her level of expectation is high as always. There are three grand slams left this season. They will be her three main goals for 2018.&quot;

Serena William returns to her sport after giving birth to her daughter in September, coach Mouratoglou calls this her biggest challenge

Serena Williams' return to the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) Tour following the birth of her first child will be the "greatest challenge" of her career, but the American can get back to her best in time for the French Open, according to her coach Patrick Mouratoglou." Williams, who won her 23rd grand slam title at last year's Australian Open before going on maternity leave, pulled out of this year`s tournament in Melbourne. She represented the United States in a Fed Cup doubles match last month and is scheduled to take part in the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells this week. Asked if her latest comeback represented the biggest test of her career, Mouratoglou said: "It probably is... now she is 36, just had a child, a second blood clot, has gone more than a year without any competition. I think we can say without a doubt that this is her biggest challenge." Former world number one Williams, who returned in 2012 from surgery for a life-threatening blood clot on her lung and climbed back to the top of the rankings, said she almost died after giving birth to her daughter in September. Mouratoglou said fans had to give Williams time to adjust to the rigors of the sport. "I think she`ll be ready for Roland Garros. The competitions she will play until then will help her and every day she progresses on her fitness," he told the Women's Tennis Association website "Serena's target will be to win grand slams. She knows that coming back might take some time, but her level of expectation is high as always. There are three grand slams left this season. They will be her three main goals for 2018."

Tennis: Serena's comeback her greatest challenge, says coach Mouratoglou

Stan Wawrinka broke down Andy Murray&#39;s formidable defences to reach the French Open final on Friday, twice coming from a set down to win a high-octane contest 6-7(6) 6-3 5-7 7-6(3) 6-1.

The Swiss 2015 champion hit a staggering 87 winners as he avenged last year&#39;s semi-final defeat by the world number one to set up a final against nine-times champion Rafa Nadal or Austrian wunderkind Dominic Thiem.

Murray absorbed everything Wawrinka threw at him for most of the four hour and 34 minute match but after winning a tense fourth set Wawrinka steamed ahead in the decider as Murray&#39;s armour was finally pierced.

Third seed Wawrinka, who had not dropped a set on the way to the semis, wavered slightly when dropping serve at 5-0 but broke straight back to claim victory with a flashing backhand.

(Reuters)

The Swiss 2015 champion hit a staggering 87 winners as he avenged last year's semi-final defeat

Stan Wawrinka broke down Andy Murray's formidable defences to reach the French Open final on Friday, twice coming from a set down to win a high-octane contest 6-7(6) 6-3 5-7 7-6(3) 6-1. The Swiss 2015 champion hit a staggering 87 winners as he avenged last year's semi-final defeat by the world number one to set up a final against nine-times champion Rafa Nadal or Austrian wunderkind Dominic Thiem. Murray absorbed everything Wawrinka threw at him for most of the four hour and 34 minute match but after winning a tense fourth set Wawrinka steamed ahead in the decider as Murray's armour was finally pierced. Third seed Wawrinka, who had not dropped a set on the way to the semis, wavered slightly when dropping serve at 5-0 but broke straight back to claim victory with a flashing backhand. (Reuters)

French Open: Wawrinka beats out Murray to reach the finals

On court Novak Djokovic is taking tennis to extraordinary new levels with his single-minded obsession with winning. Off it the Serbian is more than happy to share power. 
 
The 29-year-old will begin his attempt to win a fourth Wimbledon title on Monday when he plays British wildcard James Ward on Centre Court,12 months after claiming a second successive title by beating Roger Federer. 
 
While nothing will distract him from that goal, the dominant Serbian also knows that however big the gap is between himself and his rivals and it is a yawning chasm that no player is bigger than the sport. 
 
At his pre-tournament news conference at Wimbledon today, the world number one confirmed he had re-joined the 12-man ATP Players Council, along with chief rival Andy Murray and Murray&#39;s brother Jamie, the world&#39;s top doubles player. 
 
It is a responsibility Djokovic will apply himself to with the same devotion as his career for the next two years as tennis wrestles with the kind of doping and corruption scandals that have afflicted world sport. 
 
&quot;I&#39;ve been very flattered and humbled to be elected by my colleagues,&quot; Djokovic told reporters. 
 
&quot;The way I see it is that I managed to gain trust from players, which is very important to me. I have been part of the Player Council for three years earlier in my career. I`ve been familiar with the way the system works. 
 
&quot;I&#39;m hoping I can contribute to the evolution and to the betterment of our sport in every aspect.&quot; 
 
There is little argument that he has taken tennis to new levels of perfection since losing to Murray in the 2013 final here. 
 
Since then he has won six of the 11 grand slam titles on offer, taking his tally to 12 overall. 
 
In beating Murray at Roland Garros earlier this month he became the first man in 47 years to hold all four majors. 
 
He also won the ATP World Tour Finals in November and will have his eye on Olympic gold in August and probably the Davis Cup too. 
 
His immediate focus though is on a smooth opening to his Wimbledon campaign having chosen again not to play any grasscourt tournaments in the run-up. 
 
&quot;This year is quite different from previous years because I`m coming in with a Roland Garros title,&quot; he said. 
 
&quot;That gives me, obviously, a lot of confidence. I&#39;ve played a lot of points in the practice sessions these four or five days, trying to be on the grass as much as I can. So I`m really keen on getting on the court.&quot; 
 
Djokovic, who beat Federer in the last two Wimbledon finals, could face a tough path to a hat-trick. 
 
Big-serving Canadian Milos Raonic is a potential quarter-final opponent with Federer possible in the semis. 
 
Ward is unlikely to pose too many problems, although Djokovic is well aware that the crowd will be rooting for his opponent when play begins on Monday. 
 
&quot;It&#39;s going to be the first match on the untouched grass,&quot; he said. &quot; That&#39;s probably one of the most special tennis matches that you get to experience as a tennis player. 
 
&quot;I&#39;m looking forward to that. Obviously I know that he doesn`t have much to lose.&quot; 
 
(Reuters)

The 29-year-old will begin his attempt to win a fourth Wimbledon title on Monday when he plays British wildcard James Ward on Centre Court

On court Novak Djokovic is taking tennis to extraordinary new levels with his single-minded obsession with winning. Off it the Serbian is more than happy to share power. The 29-year-old will begin his attempt to win a fourth Wimbledon title on Monday when he plays British wildcard James Ward on Centre Court,12 months after claiming a second successive title by beating Roger Federer. While nothing will distract him from that goal, the dominant Serbian also knows that however big the gap is between himself and his rivals and it is a yawning chasm that no player is bigger than the sport. At his pre-tournament news conference at Wimbledon today, the world number one confirmed he had re-joined the 12-man ATP Players Council, along with chief rival Andy Murray and Murray's brother Jamie, the world's top doubles player. It is a responsibility Djokovic will apply himself to with the same devotion as his career for the next two years as tennis wrestles with the kind of doping and corruption scandals that have afflicted world sport. "I've been very flattered and humbled to be elected by my colleagues," Djokovic told reporters. "The way I see it is that I managed to gain trust from players, which is very important to me. I have been part of the Player Council for three years earlier in my career. I`ve been familiar with the way the system works. "I'm hoping I can contribute to the evolution and to the betterment of our sport in every aspect." There is little argument that he has taken tennis to new levels of perfection since losing to Murray in the 2013 final here. Since then he has won six of the 11 grand slam titles on offer, taking his tally to 12 overall. In beating Murray at Roland Garros earlier this month he became the first man in 47 years to hold all four majors. He also won the ATP World Tour Finals in November and will have his eye on Olympic gold in August and probably the Davis Cup too. His immediate focus though is on a smooth opening to his Wimbledon campaign having chosen again not to play any grasscourt tournaments in the run-up. "This year is quite different from previous years because I`m coming in with a Roland Garros title," he said. "That gives me, obviously, a lot of confidence. I've played a lot of points in the practice sessions these four or five days, trying to be on the grass as much as I can. So I`m really keen on getting on the court." Djokovic, who beat Federer in the last two Wimbledon finals, could face a tough path to a hat-trick. Big-serving Canadian Milos Raonic is a potential quarter-final opponent with Federer possible in the semis. Ward is unlikely to pose too many problems, although Djokovic is well aware that the crowd will be rooting for his opponent when play begins on Monday. "It's going to be the first match on the untouched grass," he said. " That's probably one of the most special tennis matches that you get to experience as a tennis player. "I'm looking forward to that. Obviously I know that he doesn`t have much to lose." (Reuters)

Djokovic focused on Wimbledon but sees bigger picture

Australia&#39;s Bernard Tomic thinks he is playing some of the best grasscourt tennis of his career, and is in a good place off the court, as he heads into the Wimbledon championships main draw for the seventh time. 
 
The 23-year-old&#39;s campaign at the All England Club ended in the third round last year and was followed by a very public and bitter row with Tennis Australia over what he said was their lack of backing for him. 
 
Since then, there have been rows over his suitability to be part of Australia&#39;s Olympic team, which he defused by withdrawing his name from consideration, and the now traditional woes of his claycourt season. 
 
After a second-round departure at the French Open that surprised few given his dislike of the Roland Garros surface, however, Tomic has rediscovered his form on grass at &#39;s-Hertogenbosch and Queen&#39;s Club. 
 
&quot;I&#39;d say probably it&#39;s the best it&#39;s been leading into Wimbledon,&quot; the 19th seed told Australia&#39;s Fox Sports TV. 
 
&quot;I managed to play two grasscourt tournaments, played really well, making the quarters in the Netherlands and the semis at Queen&#39;s.&nbsp;I feel like I&#39;m playing some of my best tennis on grass and now we&#39;re here at the famous Wimbledon tournament and I&#39;m ready to go.&quot; 
 
Tomic made his grand slam breakthrough when he reached the Wimbledon quarter-finals as a qualifier in 2011, and it remains his favourite of the sport&#39;s four majors. 
 
&quot;It was a huge moment for my career that turned everything around and I always look back on that leading into any grasscourt tournament,&quot; he said. 
 
&quot;I take back that memory and I&#39;m always in a position to play my best tennis on grass. On grass, I always seem to be intense and on my feet and I always seem to play really well.&quot; 
 
Lapses of concentration and intensity have been a problem for Tomic throughout a career that promised so much when he won two junior grand slam titles. 
 
Allegations of giving up, or tanking, have dogged him in recent years and reached fever pitch when he faced match point at the Madrid Open in May with his racket upside down. 
 
He knows, however, that he will have to be on his toes for his first round match against tricky Spanish left-hander Fernando Verdasco, who he beat at Queen&#39;s Club to take a 4-1 lead in their career head-to-head. 
 
&quot;Last week was an incredible match,&quot; Tomic said. 
 
&quot;He&#39;s going to come out swinging, doing some different things, he knows he&#39;s down in the record against me but that&#39;s not going to stop him playing well.&quot; 
 
Off court, the presence of Lleyton Hewitt in London should also ensure no repeat of the rows with Tennis Australia. 
 
&quot;I&#39;m happy now, I&#39;ve got a good team around me, and I&#39;m at my favourite tournament as well,&quot; he added. 
 
(Reuters)

After a second-round departure at the French Open, Bernard Tomic rediscovered his form on grass at 's-Hertogenbosch and Queen's Club

Australia's Bernard Tomic thinks he is playing some of the best grasscourt tennis of his career, and is in a good place off the court, as he heads into the Wimbledon championships main draw for the seventh time. The 23-year-old's campaign at the All England Club ended in the third round last year and was followed by a very public and bitter row with Tennis Australia over what he said was their lack of backing for him. Since then, there have been rows over his suitability to be part of Australia's Olympic team, which he defused by withdrawing his name from consideration, and the now traditional woes of his claycourt season. After a second-round departure at the French Open that surprised few given his dislike of the Roland Garros surface, however, Tomic has rediscovered his form on grass at 's-Hertogenbosch and Queen's Club. "I'd say probably it's the best it's been leading into Wimbledon," the 19th seed told Australia's Fox Sports TV. "I managed to play two grasscourt tournaments, played really well, making the quarters in the Netherlands and the semis at Queen's. I feel like I'm playing some of my best tennis on grass and now we're here at the famous Wimbledon tournament and I'm ready to go." Tomic made his grand slam breakthrough when he reached the Wimbledon quarter-finals as a qualifier in 2011, and it remains his favourite of the sport's four majors. "It was a huge moment for my career that turned everything around and I always look back on that leading into any grasscourt tournament," he said. "I take back that memory and I'm always in a position to play my best tennis on grass. On grass, I always seem to be intense and on my feet and I always seem to play really well." Lapses of concentration and intensity have been a problem for Tomic throughout a career that promised so much when he won two junior grand slam titles. Allegations of giving up, or tanking, have dogged him in recent years and reached fever pitch when he faced match point at the Madrid Open in May with his racket upside down. He knows, however, that he will have to be on his toes for his first round match against tricky Spanish left-hander Fernando Verdasco, who he beat at Queen's Club to take a 4-1 lead in their career head-to-head. "Last week was an incredible match," Tomic said. "He's going to come out swinging, doing some different things, he knows he's down in the record against me but that's not going to stop him playing well." Off court, the presence of Lleyton Hewitt in London should also ensure no repeat of the rows with Tennis Australia. "I'm happy now, I've got a good team around me, and I'm at my favourite tournament as well," he added. (Reuters)

All England grass a tonic for Tomic

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