French Open: Roger Federer with a convincing opening win
Roger Federer moved into the second round on his return to the French Open. The 37-year-old Swiss defeated Lorenzo Sonego in three sets.
by Jens Huiber
last edit: May 26, 2019, 04:42 pm
The first ball Roger Federers played in a competition at the French Open since 2015 was not long: Federer blocked Lorenzo Sonego's serve with his backhand, the ball touched the net, fell unreachable into the field for the Italian. For the winner of 2009, the other Sunday afternoon at the Stade Roland Garros was also gratifying: Federer defeated Sonego 6: 2, 6: 4 and 6: 4 after a time of 1:41 hours.
Anyone who should have asked during the first two matches on Court Philippe-Chatrier whether the newly designed grandstands would ever be fully occupied during games of the first round, got their answer shortly before 3 p.m. local time. A clear yes, the almost four-year absence of the Swiss had further promoted interest in Federer's comeback appearance. As was already observed at the Kids´ Day on Saturday. The 20-time major winner completed his practice session with Jeremy Chardy at the Suzanne Lenglen stadium. Before exhausted capacity.
Federer now against Oscar Otte
Federer started with a break against Sonego, followed by a second, won the first set after 6 minutes with 6: 2. At the latest twelve minutes later, the Swiss already led again with two breaks with 3: 0, it was clear: Sonego not only had to fight with his opponent, but also with the scenery and his own nerves.
# BETATHOMEFOWIN #
The 24-year-old Italian had reached the quarter-finals of the ATP Masters 1000 tournament in Monte Carlo a few weeks ago, especially as a qualifier. Against Federer, Sonego often tried his luck with stop balls, a challenge that the 37-year-old grand master gladly and mostly successfully faced. The favorite made it 2-0 after 61 minutes. In the third round, Sonego held his serve until the ninth game, then Federer made the final break of the match, and after a little over 100 minutes served in the first week. Federer will also meet a German there: Oscar Ottem, who as Lucky Loser had defeated Malek Jaziri in four sets.