The French Open continues on Day 2 at Roland Garros with Emma Raducanu safely through to the second round after a testing battle with China’s Wang Xinyu.
Raducanu admitted later that she struggled throughout the match and, having clinched the opening set, her energy levels dropped significantly as Xinyu fought back in the second. The match went to a decisive third set but Raducanu powered her way to a 5-1 lead before eventually winn 7-5 4-6 6-3.
Carlos Alcaraz raced into the second round and Jannik Sinner, who fell to the Spaniard in the Italian Open final this month, defeated Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech in straight sets. Jacob Fearnley had too much for Stan Wawrinka, extending a fine season, with Katie Boulter fighting against Carole Monnet and a hostile French home crowd to reach the next round.
Elsewhere, Iga Swiatek, the three-time defending women’s champion, with four crowns overall here on the famous red clay, swept into the second and will face Raducanu next up where she hopes to snap a rotten run over the last year with victory at Roland Garros.
Follow all the latest updates, scores, results and analysis from Roland Garros below:
French Open 2025 - Day 2
- GAME, SET and MATCH! Emma Raducanu comes through tight test to reach second round
- GAME, SET and MATCH! Carlos Alcaraz too good for Giulio Zeppieri in fine start to title defence
- GAME, SET and MATCH! Katie Boulter fights from a set down to win first match at Roland Garros
- GAME, SET and MATCH! Sinner overcomes hostile atmosphere to beat Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech
- Highlights: Raducanu eases past Wang to set up blockbuster Swiatek match
Jannik Sinner shows winning quality against surging Arthur Rinderknech at French Open
22:37 , Mike JonesJannik Sinner navigated mild turbulence for a winning return to Grand Slam tennis as the world number one launched his hunt for a maiden French Open trophy with a 6-4 6-3 7-5 first-round victory over Arthur Rinderknech on Monday.
The Italian served a three-month doping ban shortly after defending his Australian Open title in January and looked close to his best in a run to the Rome final on his return this month but faced some stern questions from local hope Rinderknech.
Jannik Sinner shows winning quality against surging Arthur Rinderknech at French Open
Sinner on playing Gasquet
22:08 , Mike JonesJannik Sinner will play another Frenchman, Richard Gasquet, in the next round and said:
"It doesn't get any better. I'm very happy to be in this position. I know where he is in his position.
“He gave so much to this sport. I am very happy to share a court with him. I know you are going to support him.
“It's OK. I know that, I'm just happy to share a court with him so let's see."
Reaction from Jannik Sinner on Court Philippe Chatrier
22:08 , Mike Jones"All good. I cannot speak French, I'm sorry guys.
"First-round matches are never easy. I'm very happy with how I handled the situation, especially in the third set. I want to thank everyone who came out and being so fair to me too. I know he's a French player but I felt very appreciated.
"I have some very special guys up there. Gian, [Gianluigi Donnarumma] thank you for coming. He's the best goalkeeper you have guys so thanks guys.
"I'm just trying to focus on my side. I missed a couple of my shots. I try to learn how he moves a little bit. But I tried to gain confidence again. He made a couple of mistakes when he was serving for the set so that gave me some help. But I just tried to have the right mindset and attitude. The next match will be very special."
Jannik Sinner 6-4 6-3 7-5 Arthur Rinderknech - GAME, SET & MATCH!
21:47 , Mike JonesSinner is so good. He’s relentless and calm and composed.
Rinderknech in comparison was a combustive force of nature who is trying to power his way to winning a set.
A drop shot forces Sinner to a backtracking lob which goes long. 15-15.
Rinderknech then misses out on a return of serve.
Sinner powers a forehand winner past the Frenchman and he’s got a couple of match points. The crowd goes wild again to throw him off his game.
It doesn’t work! Sinner serves out wide and he has a straight set win in the first round.
*Jannik Sinner 6-4 5-3 6-5 Arthur Rinderknech
21:43 , Mike JonesRinderknech is faltering. He argues with the referee over a potential ace which is called out.
The Frenchman then lands one on the chalk line in the next rally and draws level at 15-15.
Two more points traded. 30-30.
A body serve puts Rinderknech into the lead but a slightly overhit forehand makes it deuce.
This is tense. Rinderknech needs this you feel if he is to win the set.
A double fault gives Sinner a break point. He would win a fourth game in a row if he takes it...
... he does! Rinderknech misses an overhead smash and Sinner leads in the third set. He’s serving for the match.
Jannik Sinner 6-4 5-3 5-5 Arthur Rinderknech*
21:37 , Mike JonesThat last game show how hard it is against the top, top players.
Sinner was out of the set at 5-2 down but now it is back on serve and he has a chance to draw level.
All is not lost for Rinderknech if he can break the Italian here.
No joy.
Sinner holds to love. He might have his mojo well and truly back.
*Jannik Sinner 6-4 5-3 4-5 Arthur Rinderknech - BREAK!
21:34 , Mike JonesCan Arthur Rinderknech take this match into a fourth set?
He starts off by finding the net with a mishit backhand. Sinner calmly celebrates the point.
A super serve-and-volley then get Rinderknech on the board.
An ace follows an error from the Frenchman to bring the game level at 30-30.
Rinderknech attempts the serve-and-volley again but goes wide this time and Sinner has a break point.
He takes it! Wow.
Jannik Sinner 6-4 5-3 3-5 Arthur Rinderknech*
21:30 , Mike JonesHow does Sinner play it from here?
He needs to win five games in a row to take the match and Rinderknech is in top form.
Well first up is a solid hold of serve.
*Jannik Sinner 6-4 5-3 2-5 Arthur Rinderknech
21:25 , Mike JonesBig game this one. If Sinner wins the third set is back on serve.
Rinderknech begins with an ace to settle things down. Sinner then fails to return the next serve. 30-0.
An excellent body serve brings him another point and this is the type of game he needed.
Sinner goes long and Rinderknech holds.
Jannik Sinner 6-4 5-3 2-4 Arthur Rinderknech*
21:23 , Mike JonesThere is a loud groan as Rinderknech, who takes the lead in the game, pushes a forehand long.
He then comes up to the net and volleys a backhand into the tape giving away a point he should have won.
More aggression from the Frenchman and more mistakes.
There’s a nervous pressure descending on the court and the crowd feel it.
Sinner holds serve.
*Jannik Sinner 6-4 5-3 1-4 Arthur Rinderknech - BREAK!
21:19 , Mike JonesWill the Arthur Rinderbech purple patch continue?
No! It looked like it would as the Frenchman celebrated a fine volley at the net but Sinner remains calm.
He keeps the ball in play, slowly chips away at his opponent and gets a break back.
Rinderbech may start to worry if Sinner holds serve in the next game.
Jannik Sinner 6-4 5-3 0-4 Arthur Rinderknech*
21:14 , Mike JonesThe crowd are Mexican waving and celebrating the advantage Arthur Rinderknech has opening up over Jannik Sinner.
He’s made to wait as the crowd dies down and has a job on his hands of silencing them.
Oh wow. Rinderknech has the bit between his teeth. Sinner misses a shot to give his opponent a point before Rinderknech laces a forehand down the line.
Sinner responds with an ace then Rinderknech lands another powerful forehand out of play. 30-30.
Another error from Rinderknech helps Sinner before the Frenchman slices a drop shot over the net. Sinner sprints to it and backhand one wide.
Deuce.
Double break! Sinner’s head has gone and he’s making a load of errors. The crowd is onto him and Rinderknech is in full flow.
Incredible.
*Jannik Sinner 6-4 5-3 0-3 Arthur Rinderknech
21:07 , Mike JonesRinderknech’s next challenge is to hold his own serve. He lets Sinner take a lead at 15-30 but lands a forehand on the baseline to draw level.
From there Sinner sends a back hand too long and gives the Frenchman a chance to hold.
Rinderknech takes it with a wide bouncing serve!
He’s three games to the good in the third set.
Jannik Sinner 6-4 5-3 0-2 Arthur Rinderknech* - BREAK!
21:04 , Mike JonesOh lovely! Rinderknech storms up to the net to win a point on the volley.
These are moments of joy for the Frenchman who then loses the next point but wins a couple after mistakes from Sinner.
That leaves him with two break points. This could turn the match on its head.
Sinner serves to the middle and follows up with a forehand into the corner. Rinderknech hits the net. 30-40.
Next up the Italian sends his serve to the forehand, forces the Frenchman wide then lands the ball on the open side of court.
Deuce.
Then break!
Oh my, Sinner misses an overhead smash to drop the score back to deuce and Rinderknech makes him pay. He’s sprinting around the court, getting the ball in play and somehow forces Sinner into two errors to break his serve.
Game on.
*Jannik Sinner 6-4 5-3 0-1 Arthur Rinderknech
20:54 , Mike JonesInto the third set, Arthur Rinderknech needs to find something more.
He must win the next three sets to get through but the focus is on this one first.
A strong start with the serve sees him take the opening two points.
A backhand lands in the net from the Frenchman and possibly opens the door for Sinner.
Nope.
Very solid finish to the game from Rinderknech to hold serve.
Jannik Sinner 6-4 6-3 Arthur Rinderknech* - SET!
20:49 , Mike JonesNo he can’t!
Rinderknech wins the first point to keep Sinner honest but the Italian ups his own level again.
Two forehands hit the line and bring him a couple of points.
His next two come without trouble as well. Sinner is making things look easy right now.
Jannik Sinner 6-4 5-3 Arthur Rinderknech*
20:46 , Mike JonesRinderknech emulates Sinner with a strong hold as well.
There’s a chance he can get back into this one but it means winning the next game.
That means breaking Sinner’s serve for the first time. Can he do it?
Jannik Sinner 6-4 5-2 Arthur Rinderknech*
20:44 , Mike JonesAs quickly as it begins, Jannik Sinner’s next service game is over.
A hold to love, one game away from winning the second set.
*Jannik Sinner 6-4 4-2 Arthur Rinderknech
20:39 , Mike JonesLovely! Rinderknech floats back a return from Sinner who plays a smash. He knocks the ball to the Frenchman’s right and Rinderknech sprints across before smoking a winner past Sinner.
The crowd goes nuts and their man has some confidence.
The sweeps the next two points to move within a hold of serve.
Sinner is relentless though. He brings Rinderknech to the net and lobs him to draw level at deuce.
Rinderknech holds his nerve though and gets through the next couple of points for a hold.
Jannik Sinner 6-4 4-1 Arthur Rinderknech*
20:33 , Mike JonesThe previous game could be the turning point in this match.
Sinner breaks then follows up with a hold of serve to love.
Rinderknech’s resistance is waning and Sinner’s confidence is growing.
We could see a procession from the World No.1 to the end of this match now.
The crowd watching on hopes not though.
*Jannik Sinner 6-4 3-1 Arthur Rinderknech - BREAK!
20:30 , Mike JonesRinderknech is in a battle now. He throws everything he has at Sinner but the Italian defends with gusto.
Both men work their way to deuce before a long forehand puts Sinner at advantage.
He goes after the next serve keeps the ball in play. Rinderknech decides to attack but blazes a forehand wide.
Sinner breaks serve!
Jannik Sinner 6-4 2-1 Arthur Rinderknech*
20:24 , Mike JonesOh yes! Jannik Sinner errs after a couple of misplaced drop shots. Rinderknech gets up to the ball for the second one and flicks it back over.
That point gets the crowd going but doesn’t affect Sinner who forces his opponent wide with his serve then hooks the return to the opposite side of court with his forehand.
Another relatively simple hold.
*Jannik Sinner 6-4 1-1 Arthur Rinderknech
20:21 , Mike JonesThe crowd have gone a bit flat after Sinner won the first set.
Rinderknech needs all the help he can get from them. A couple of points go the Frenchman’s way and the noise level starts to increase again.
More nice work from Rinderknech and he holds his own serve.
Jannik Sinner 6-4 1-0 Arthur Rinderknech*
20:17 , Mike JonesSinner has the advantage in the match and Rinderknech needs to hold his nerve.
There’s been little resistance to the Italian’s serve, despite some decent play, but that just shows how good Sinner is.
He stretches to reach a cross court forehand from the Frenchman and drills one into the net to lead 30-15.
Oh wow. A backhand lands right on the line from Sinner to continue his dominance and he holds serve with an error from his opponent.
Jannik Sinner 6-4 Arthur Rinderknech* - SET!
20:13 , Mike JonesSinner is dialled in now. A break of serve wins him the set.
He forces Rinderknech to hook a forehand wide then does the same thing himself. 15-15.
Rinderknech is forced back by Sinner and as a result rolls a forehand into the net.
Sinner then has the momentum from a return of serve, he strides into the court and backhands a winner down the line.
With two set points to play with, Sinner returns a backhand to Rinderknech’s left.
The Frenchman hits the net again and just like that the set has gone.
Jannik Sinner 6-4 Arthur Rinderknech*
20:08 , Mike JonesAs the first set heads quickly to its conclusion Jannik Sinner wastes no time in rattling off another hold.
He thunders a backhand past Rinderknech to stop him coming forward for the volley and moves to 40-0.
A drop shot with back spin puts him within one game of winning the first set.
*Jannik Sinner 4-4 Arthur Rinderknech
20:06 , Mike JonesAce! Arthur Rinderknech is playing superbly and not letting Sinner have any joy.
He serves out wide and comes forward before flicking his volley over the net.
A bit of energy flows through him in the next rally and he drives a forehand too long. The Frenchman is enjoying himself.
So too is Sinner, he’ll be pleased about getting a run out. The Italian is gifted another point from an unforced error but another stellar serve-and-volley put Rinderknech ahead again.
At 40-30, the Frenchman serves down the line to hold.
Jannik Sinner 4-3 Arthur Rinderknech*
20:01 , Mike JonesLovely! Rinderknech smokes a return of serve past Sinner and takes the first point of the next game.
Each point he wins is being met with a loud cheer from the crowd.
Sinner takes the next point but pushes a forehand too wide. You wouldn’t be able to tell by his body language but maybe the World No.1 is slightly rattled by this start from Rinderknech.
The Frenchman hangs on in a long rally before getting the opportunity to drive a forehand down the line. He goes for it but sends the ball too long.
Sinner holds serve again.
*Jannik Sinner 3-3 Arthur Rinderknech
19:57 , Mike JonesRinderknech can only hold his own serve and keep troubling Sinner with his aggression.
A forehand slice catches Sinner off guard and earns the Frenchman a point.
He takes the next one too as Sinner whips a backhand out of play.
Rinderknech holds to love as well.
Anything Sinner can do...
Jannik Sinner 3-2 Arthur Rinderknech*
19:53 , Mike JonesSinner sends a passing winner by Rinderknech who is being toyed with.
The Frenchman is dancing from side-to-side chasing the ball as Sinner seems to have found his mojo.
A hold of serve to love takes him ahead once more.
*Jannik Sinner 2-2 Arthur Rinderknech
19:51 , Mike JonesRinderknech pulls out the fist pump after serving to the backhand of Sinner and getting a point.
The Frenchman then serves and volleys. He comes up to the net but Sinner manages to get to his return.
Sinner whips one down the line but pushes it too long!
Another hold for Rinderknech who is playing very well.
Jannik Sinner 2-1 Arthur Rinderknech*
19:47 , Mike JonesOh hello.
Rinderknech is being really aggressive here and is causing issues for Sinner. The ball is keeping a little low and the Frenchman has a couple of break points.
The first is pushed into the net from a backhand and the second is sent too long when returning the serve.
Sinner seems as calm as ever.
Rinderknech is fired up. He moves to advantage and tries to force the issue. A couple of mishits take the ball too long and Sinner is back to deuce.
Calm is the only word to describe Sinner. Barely a twitch of the eyebrows during Rinderknech’s pressure and the Italian turns the tables to hold his own serve.
Impressive.
*Jannik Sinner 1-1 Arthur Rinderknech
19:38 , Mike Jones‘Come on!’ cries Rinderknech as he manages to cling on to a hold of serve despite constant pressure from Sinner.
The Frenchman hold good control of his serve but Sinner is so good at keeping rallies going that it’ll be a tough outing tonight.
Great start though.
Jannik Sinner 1-0 Arthur Rinderknech*
19:33 , Mike JonesSinner has the opening serve of the match and is met with an equally enthusiastic return from Arthur Rinderknech.
The Italian loses that point but takes the next two as he feels his way into the game and the court.
An inside-out forehand earns him another point and he holds serve in this first game by coming up to the net and volleying over a winner.
Jannik Sinner vs Arthur Rinderknech
19:31 , Mike JonesWelcome back to our coverage from Roland Garros.
Jannik Sinnner and Arthur Rinderknech have made their way out onto Court Philippe Chatrier.
Sinner is the big favourite to win here but how will he go in five sets?
Let’s find out.
Emma Raducanu sets up clash with Iga Swiatek as Katie Boulter digs deep for first Roland Garros win
18:47 , Mike JonesEmma Raducanu needed a lengthy medical time-out as she came through a three-set marathon to book a blockbuster second-round meeting with defending champion Iga Swiatek at the French Open.
The 22-year-old was leading China’s Wang Xinyu 6-5 in the first set when she called for the doctor, rubbing ice on her cheeks and round her eyes as she had her blood pressure checked.
There were fears that Raducanu, who has had a history of injury and illness issues throughout her career, would have to retire from the match.
Raducanu sets up clash with Swiatek as Boulter digs deep for first Roland Garros win
See you shortly!
18:15 , Mike JonesWere taking a break now but we’ll be back later this evening with coverage of Jannik Sinner's match against Arthur Rinderknech.
That should be a cracker. Catch you soon...
More from Boulter who said:
18:12 , Mike Jones“Last week was great for me [winning the WTA 125k, Paris] which means I have officially have now got one win on every surface which means a lot to me.
“I think it makes it even more special that it was here in Paris because coming out here today I had familiar, good feelings.
“Also last year, getting to play the Olympics here. That was something very special to me.”
Post match reaction from Katie Boulter.
18:09 , Mike Jones“My first victory here at Roland Garros. Honestly I’m really pleased with myself.
“Sometimes I find it really difficult on this surface. I persevered and tried my hardest to bring some good tennis and obviously my first Roland Garros win, you never forget those ones.
“This one is going to be special for me. I’m really, really happy with today.”
*Katie Boulter 6-7 6-1 6-1 Carole Monnet - GAME, SET & MATCH
17:56 , Mike JonesThat’s it!
Carole Monnet’s resistance is done and Katie Boulter is into the second round.
She wins it with an error from the French favourite. Boulter secures her first victory at Roland Garros.
It wasn’t the best performance but she got over the line when needed.
Katie Boulter 6-7 6-1 5-1 Carole Monnet*
17:54 , Mike JonesHold from Boutler.
Monnet threatened her a couple of times with some wild and heavy forehands but the Birt remained composed and secured her hold.
One more game to go.
*Katie Boulter 6-7 6-1 4-1 Carole Monnet
17:48 , Mike JonesNice from Monnet. After that first set fightback she would have thought something special might be on the cards.
Katie Boulter has blown her away since then but the French woman has had some moments of joy.
Monnet gets a hold of serve and is hanging in there.
Katie Boulter 6-7 6-1 4-0 Carole Monnet*
17:46 , Mike JonesKatie Boulter is beginning to assert some composed dominance.
She’s scoring a lot of forehand winners, up to 21 now for the match, as Monnet is forced deep behind the baseline.
The double break is complete with a hold to 15. Boulter has won 10 of the last 11 games.
*Katie Boulter 6-7 6-1 3-0 Carole Monnet - BREAK!
17:42 , Mike JonesKatie Boulter is skipping around the court now. She’s confident about getting the job done now.
Monnet puts up a good fight but Boulter is into her stride, working the French player across the court and forcing the errors.
Boulter pulls out the fist pump as she sets up a break point then cheers when Monnet goes long.
Halfway there now.
Katie Boulter 6-7 6-1 2-0 Carole Monnet*
17:38 , Mike JonesBoulter does well from 0-30 down. The French crowd were starting to get at her again but she silences them with a could of decent serves to draw level.
Boutler then goes ahead with a dainty drop shot volley and manages to hold serve with a backhand down the line.
Big hold and Boulter has the advantage in the set.
*Katie Boulter 6-7 6-1 0-0 Carole Monnet
17:33 , Mike JonesHere we go.
Monnet starts well in this set by taking the first point but Boulter is after here immediately. A backhand winner brings the Brit a point and the pair trade points to reach 30-30.
Boulter hooks a return of serve wide but Monnet double faults to put the game level at deuce.
Boutler has three attempts to break Monnet and kick off the third set well. On the third, Monnet sends down a second serve and gets battered by forehands. She manages to defend, and defend so more before Boutler hooks a backhand wide.
Back to deuce.
Finally! A cross court forehand from Boutler is too strong and powerful for Monnet. The Brit breaks after a 10 minute game.
Katie Boulter 6-7 6-1 0-0 Carole Monnet*
17:21 , Mike JonesCarole Monnet has just stepped off court for a comfort break ahead of what will be a fascinating finale to this first round match.
Can Katie Boulter get through or will Monnet pull off a shock win?
Katie Boulter 6-7 6-1 Carole Monnet - SET!
17:16 , Mike JonesWonderful from Katie Boutler. She battles through a tough game against the serve and secures a break before storming through to claim the second set.
A perfect response having lost the opening set. One more to go.
*Katie Boulter 6-7 4-1 Carole Monnet
17:06 , Mike JonesBoutler gets her hold of serve after forcing Monnet to go long. It was decent work from deuce to get over the line.
The Brit is close to forcing a deciding set. Two games away.
*Katie Boulter 6-7 1-4 Carole Monnet
17:04 , Mike JonesCarole Monnet holds serve for the first time in the second set and delights the crowd in doing so.
Boulter shrugs it off and is back in the zone. She latches on to a forehand volley and drives it home to move 30-0 up in the next game.
A barrage from Boulter nudges her closer to a hold but Monnet isn’t going away. Some strong defence from the French player forces the game to deuce.
What can she do from this position?
Katie Boulter 6-7 (4-7) 3-0 Carole Monnet*
16:58 , Mike JonesNot the start Carole Monnet wanted in the second set as Katie Boulter has raced into a three game lead.
The Brit seemed rattled towards the end of the first set, especially with the partisan crowd on her back but she’s settled down again here.
Boulter sets up a double break point to move further ahead.
SET! Katie Boulter 6-7 (4-7) Carole Monnet
16:43 , Jack RathbornDOUBLE FAULT!
Boulter has blown this, down two set points, a gripping rally ensues...
But long! Boulter sprays a forehand wide and she’s coughed up the first stand in bizarre fashion.
Time for a rethink, the French crowd go wild, the world No. 227 is up here and can sense a monumental upset...
Katie Boulter 6-6 (3-4) Carole Monnet*
16:39 , Jack RathbornWow! A perfect start and the momentum switches... just like that Monnet rallies from 0-3 to 3-3.
Boulter then plants a forehand into the net and my goodness, she’s down a break!
HOLD! Katie Boulter 6-6 Carole Monnet*
16:34 , Jack RathbornImpressive from Boulter, who came under massive pressure there!
Monnet grabbed a first lead of the match, but Boulter holds firm, forces the tie-break.
*Katie Boulter 5-4 Carole Monnet
16:26 , Jack RathbornNow at a vital moment in the set for Boulter, who is coming under pressure from the hostile home crowd.
Monnet getting a lot of support here and the drop shot causing Katie issues.
A big forehand gets her out of a small hole at 15-30. But that’s wayward! Fist pump from Monnet... Break point!
Katie Boulter 5-3 Carole Monnet*
16:19 , Jack RathbornIt’s still on serve here, Boulter now edging towards that first set, and she leads 5-3!
That was vital and she’s remained calm throughout this first half an hour or so.
Katie Boulter on top early against Carole Monnet
16:02 , Jack RathbornIt's a hot start from Boulter, who grabs a quick break over Monnet. She leads 2-1 and is on serve.
Katie Boulter ready to begin French Open campaign
15:41 , Jack RathbornKatie Boulter, or Claytie Boulter, as the British No. 1 has joked after recent joy on the red stuff with victory last week at the 125k Paris, begins her French Open campaign shortly.
She faces home favourite Carole Monnet in a game the Briton will fancy, with Monnet losing a qualifier to Eleejah Inisan in the same tournament Boulter won.
It’s a first meeting between the pair, there will be an unknown factor for Boulter to deal with.
Highlights: Raducanu eases past Wang to set up blockbuster Swiatek match
15:28 , Jack RathbornBoulter and Sinner to come
15:08 , Mike JonesStill to come from our coverage of the French Open today is Katie Boulter’s first round match against Carole Monnet and Jannik Sinner’s campaign opener versus Arthur Rinderknech.
Teenager Victoria Mboko continues rapid rise at French Open as Aryna Sabalenka makes supreme start
15:00 , Mike JonesTeenager Victoria Mboko is the first breakout star at this year’s French Open after reaching round two on her grand slam debut.
The 18-year-old from Canada, whose parents emigrated from the Democratic Republic of Congo due to political conflict before she was born, came through qualifying without dropping a set. Ranked 333 at the start of the year, Mboko took to the court at 11am on the opening Sunday at Roland Garros and showed no sign of nerves in a 6-1 7-6 (4) win over New Zealander Lulu Sun, the world No 45 who beat Emma Raducanu at Wimbledon last July.
It was Mboko’s 38th win of the season and she has lost just five matches, two of which were three-set battles with top-10 players Paula Badosa and Coco Gauff. Now ranked 120, Mboko’s rapid upward trajectory means she is well in with a chance of qualifying directly into the Wimbledon main draw later this summer.
“I didn’t expect the whole thing, honestly,” she said. “I mean, even to be here and playing even the quallies, I was so excited to be in a grand slam for the first ever time. I remember coming here as a junior, watching the older girls play. It was such a great experience. I’m happy I experienced it in the juniors so that it kind of prepared me for the professional level.
“The whole thing is honestly kind of a surprise. I mean, now I’m here, I feel like I can do something with it and make the most of it.”
Fearnley wins first set against Wawrinka
14:46 , Mike JonesGreat Britain’s Jacob Fearnley is currently in action at Roland Garros and is facing Stan Wawrinka in the opening round.
A close first set went to a tie break with Fearnley securing the first set 7-6 (8-6).
It’ll be an interesting match if things continue in this way.
Boris Becker ‘lost for words’ Novak Djokovic has not kept Andy Murray as his coach for Wimbledon
14:39 , Mike JonesKudos for trying. After last year’s no-change procession, the kingmakers at Formula One had to change something at the sport’s traditional blue-riband event. A mandatory two pit-stops had never been written into the rulebook before; the aroma of mystique was palpable ahead of raceday in Monte-Carlo.
As it turned out, the brains and boffins in the garages made a mockery of the regulation. Racing Bulls showed their hand first, with Liam Lawson driving purposefully slowly to hold up the pack behind him, allowing teammate Isack Hadjar to pit again without losing position. Then, Williams followed suit – with Carlos Sainz and then Alex Albon lapping nearly six seconds a lap slower than the frontrunners.
For both teams, double points-finishes. A tactic reeking of gamesmanship worked to perfection. It was all fair game – but it was master manipulation. As 2009 world champion Jenson Button put it afterwards: “It was all just a bit silly.”
Even for the drivers who benefited from the strategy, there was little solace in the leaderboard. Their racing instinct was curtailed here, at one of the sport’s most glorious circuits to drive. That is not right.
Becker ‘lost for words’ that Djokovic has not kept Murray as his coach for Wimbledon
Recovery key for Raducanu?
14:25 , Mike JonesThough Emma Raducanu struggled in her match with Wang Xinyu today she has a day to recover before facing Iga Swiatek.
Laura Robson said that will help her. The TNT Sports pundit explained: “One of the best parts about these tournaments is that you do get the day off, so she's gonna have some space to recover.
“She's gonna probably spend a bit of time with the physio over the next 24 hours and have hopefully a fresh start.”
Sinner braced for hostile atmosphere against Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech after returning from doping ban
14:19 , Mike JonesJannik Sinner is braced for a “different” reception from the crowd at the French Open.
The Italian world number one returned from his three-month doping ban to a hero’s welcome on home soil in Rome last week. But Sinner does not expect the Roland Garros crowd to be quite so cordial when he takes on Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech in round one.
“It’s definitely going to be different. I know that,” he said. “But I don’t think they have something against me, no? It’s right that they support the players who are from here, who are local here. It’s the same when I play against an American player in the US Open.
“So it’s normal. You know, I got an amazing atmosphere in Rome because I’m Italian. It’s right that the player who plays in this city or country, that they got more support. Last year I played against some French players here. So I know a little bit what to expect. It’s a different moment because whatever happened happened. So let’s see.”
Henman on Raducanu:
14:08 , Mike Jones“She obviously isn't feeling her best, felt a little bit low on energy, but when you do find a way to, you know, get those solutions, then you give yourself an opportunity in the next round.
“As you say, against Swiatek, ther is less pressure on her, and hopefully she can play with that freedom.”
The promising signs Emma Raducanu is bridging the gap on clay ahead of French Open
14:00 , Mike JonesClay has never felt like a natural happy hunting ground for British players. The grass-court season on home turf, with its attendant pressures and hype, and the hard-court season that makes up the majority of each year are more familiar underfoot.
That was certainly true of Emma Raducanu, who admitted in Madrid that she did not feel comfortable on the red dirt and occasionally cut a frustrated figure as she failed to get to grips with it.
But on the eve of Roland-Garros, the climax of the clay season, she can reflect on a promising couple of months. She is unlikely to make a deep run at the French Open: the gulf between her and the top clay-courters like Coco Gauff was made evident in their one-sided match in Rome last week. But success for Raducanu – contrary to what Twitter’s armchair experts may think – is not necessarily about that.
This year has been about stringing together runs and rediscovering her natural gamestyle after some time in the wilderness. She herself called it a “fresh start” when she arrived in Rome and said her next few tournaments were about trying to “work on doing things differently to try and bridge the gap between where I am now and where I want to be”.
The promising signs Emma Raducanu is bridging the gap on clay ahead of French Open
Alcaraz on his downtime:
13:47 , Mike Jones“Once I’m at home with my family I’m just myself. I’m Carlos Alcaraz the person, not the player which is great.
“I like to come home and feel like a normal kid and refresh my mind for the next tournaments.”
Alcaraz reacts to reaching second round
13:44 , Mike Jones“I think I was really, really solid. The first round for any tournament is never easy, coming here as the defending champion could be even tougher.
“I just started pretty well. I kept my good pace during the whole match which is great. I tried to be focused on my game, play good tennis and get a good rhythm. Hopefully I keep going in the next round.
“I’m very proud of my start here at Roland Garros.”
Carlos Alcaraz defeats Giulio Zeppieri 6-3 6-4 6-2
13:35 , Mike Jones
Carlos Alcaraz 6-3 6-4 6-2 Giulio Zeppieri - GAME, SET & MATCH
13:32 , Mike JonesZeppieri whips a forehand wide as Alcaraz looks to get this match done.
The Italian then fights back with a wonderful driving forehand from the next serve to keep things level at 15-15.
Alcaraz takes the next point from his next serve before another wide push from Zeppieri puts the Spaniard on the brink.
Alcaraz sends his serve to the backhand and is met with a fine response. He is then forced into a backhand of his own and goes long.
The defending champion fizzes an ace down the T line and that’s that.
Carlos Alcaraz wins in straight sets and moves into the second round.
*Carlos Alcaraz 6-3 6-4 6-5-2 Giulio Zeppieri
13:27 , Mike JonesToo often Zeppieri has let good positions slip against the tide that is Carlos Alcaraz.
The Spaniard is a force of nature, especially on clay, and Zeppieri is doing a decent job of sticking with him.
He holds serve and forces Alcaraz into another game.
Carlos Alcaraz 6-3 6-4 5-1 Giulio Zeppieri*
13:24 , Mike JonesAlcaraz is wasting no time in getting this match over and done with.
He breaks Zeppieri again before easing to a 40-15 lead from his own serve.
A serve down the T line is judged as a double fault which hands a point to his opponent but he holds his nerve byt serving wide and moving to within one game of reaching the second round.
Carlos Alcaraz 6-3 6-4 3-1 Giulio Zeppieri
13:15 , Mike JonesOne of the favourites to win the men’s singles title, Carlos Alcaraz, has kicked off his campaign to defend his trophy.
He’s facing Giulio Zeppieri on Court Suzanne Lenglen and is just three games away from securing his spot in the second round.
We’ll have updates from that match to come.
Raducanu on facing Swiatek in the net round
13:11 , Mike JonesIga Swiatek is one of the favourites to go on and win the women’s singles this year and she is Emma Raducanu’s next opponent having won her opening round match on Court Philippe Chatrier.
Raducanu was asked how she felt about facing the Pole in the next round. She replied: “I'm very happy to have given myself another chance in the draw.
“I felt the noise around the match [against Swiatek] before we both played our first rounds.
“I'm looking forward to it, there’s not much pressure on me and I think my game is in a pretty good place.
“It’ll be a good challenge.”
Post match reaction from Emma Raducanu
13:05 , Mike Jones“I don’t feel great,” laughed Raducanu when speaking to Laura Robson on court after winning her first round clash.
“I would have felt worse if I’d have lost that match. I was struggling today, really struggling from the start. I was playing Xinyu who is a tough opponent, she can take the racket out of your hands and I was really flat.
“I’m happy to have found a way and I think the opening rounds are never easy. I haven’t been here in three years so I think it was a combination of a lot of things.
“I’m really happy to have got through.”
Emma Raducanu 7-5 4-6 6-3 Wang Xinyu - GAME, SET and MATCH
12:58 , Mike JonesLet off for Raducanu! A poor return of serve brings Wang up to the net but she powers a forehand too long.
Raducanu then goes after a second serve and forces Wang into the net to move 0-30 up.
Wang then goes on the attack and powers a forehand down the line to get on the board.
It’s not good enough as Raducanu sets up a couple of match points with a brilliant backhand. Can she take one?
No! A double fault from Wang ends the match in a whimper.
Emma Raducanu goes into the second round and she’ll face Iga Swiatek. What a result for the Brit.
Emma Raducanu 7-5 4-6 5-3 Wang Xinyu* - BREAK!
12:55 , Mike JonesAfter losing two match points, Raducanu saves a break point of her own.
She’s still in control of the match, somehow. At deuce a serve out wide sets up a backhand down the line but she goes wide and Wang has a second break point.
Wang wins the game with a drop shot. The set is still alive.
*Emma Raducanu 7-5 4-6 5-2 Wang Xinyu
12:52 , Mike JonesRaducanu takes the first point from her first serve. She wins the second point after Wang drills a backhand into the net.
Edging ever closer.
Raducanu’s third serve is sent wide and called a fault. Wang then unloads on the second serve and attacks with her backhand. She gets a point back. 30-15.
Wang’s backhand down the line hits the tape and leaves Raducanu with two match points.
Wang saves the first one and then saves the second one with a forceful forehand across the court.
Deuce.
*Emma Raducanu 7-5 4-6 5-2 Wang Xinyu
12:46 , Mike JonesWang Xinyu was in the same exact position as Emma Raducanu is now during the second set. She managed to get over the line and that is the task the Brit now faces.
Wang is too good in this game though. A hold of serve to 15 earns her another game but Raducanu will have the chance to serve for the match.
Emma Raducanu 7-5 4-6 5-1 Wang Xinyu*
12:44 , Mike JonesWhat can Emma Raducanu muster here? A hold of serve puts her on the brink of the second round.
She starts well taking a point with a serve out wide. The next point devolves into a rally which sees momentum switch throughout. Raducanu on the offensive but Wang defends strong. She powers a forehand winner past the Brit and take the point.
Raducanu then inches ahead once more before a first serve to the forehand sees her in control. She works Wang to the right then leaves the ball alone as it goes long.
At 40-15, Raducanu serves to the forehand but lifts a backhand over the back. This game is still alive...
... but not for much longer! Raducanu wins with a forehand winner, she’s one game away from winning the set.
*Emma Raducanu 7-5 4-6 4-1 Wang Xinyu - BREAK!
12:38 , Mike JonesSolid and impressive work from Wang. Mixing heavy forehands with delicate drop shots.
Raducanu powers a couple of returns of serve back at her from 0-40 down and gets closer to her opponent.
She then brings the game to deuce by forcing Wang onto the defensive and seeing the Chinese No.2 push a forehand too long.
At deuce, Raducanu overhits one then saves game point to keep hopes of another break alive.
Wang finds the net with an off balance backhand and Raducanu has a break point. She digs deep and forces Wang long!
Emma Raducanu 7-5 4-6 3-1 Wang Xinyu* - BREAK!
12:34 , Mike JonesOne of Raducanu’s breaks of serve goes away as Wang immediately breaks back.
Things are setting up for a tense finish on Court 8, especially if Wang can hold her next serve.
*Emma Raducanu 7-5 4-6 3-0 Wang Xinyu
12:31 , Mike JonesA hold of serve for Raducanu now would put her in complete control. Wang isn’t giving the match up though and comes out swinging as she has done throughout whenever her back has been up to the wall.
The Chinese No.2 wins the first two points from Raducanu’s serve before being wrongfooted after a serve out wide.
Wang’s focus helps her open up a lead and set up two break points. The first she pushes over the back of court giving Raducanu some hope of a hold.
The second she flicks into the net. Deuce.
*Emma Raducanu 7-5 4-6 3-0 Wang Xinyu
12:25 , Mike JonesYes! It’s another break for Raducanu who has won six of the last seven games and has a lead of three in the third set.
Emma Raducanu 7-5 4-6 2-0 Wang Xinyu*
12:24 , Mike JonesThe crowd is excited after Raducanu comes forward and dinks the ball over the net on the half-volley. This is another big game, more so for Wang.
If she loses here then Raducanu has firm control of the set. A double fault puts the Brit 0-30 up but Raducanu fails to take control after drilling another backhand into the tape.
Raducanu then goes after a second serve from Wang and sets up a couple of break points.
She attacks a serve and sends it wide then launches a backhand too long to put the game at deuce.
Emma Raducanu 7-5 4-6 2-0 Wang Xinyu*
12:21 , Mike JonesEmma Raducanu opens up with a serve-and-volley that brings her the point.
She’s forced into a defensive rally next up and almost forces it back into her favour only to drill a backhand into the net.
Both players trade points again to bring the game to 30-30. Wang then misses out on a backhand down the line which gives Raducanu the chance to hold.
Which she does! And with a wonderful drop shot. Advantage Raducanu.
*Emma Raducanu 7-5 4-6 1-0 Wang Xinyu - BREAK!
12:15 , Mike JonesI have no idea which way this match is going to go. Both players have been brilliant at times and lacklustre at times.
It’s been a fascinating and even contest and it will come down to little moments.
Wang has the opening serve in the third serve and is immediately put on the back foot by Raducanu who takes the first two points.
A double fault from Wang offers up three break points to the Brit who says thank you very much and wins the first game of the third set.
A perfect start from Raducanu. Can she hold serve now?
Emma Raducanu 7-5 4-6 Wang Xinyu - SET!
12:08 , Mike JonesRaducanu goes to advantage though with three well placed forehands and a backhand volley that ends up being the winning stroke.
Wang brings her back to deuce and is only a couple of points from winning the set.
She does so again before a moment of relief.
Wang thinks she’s up to set point after Raducanu’s forehand to the baseline is called out. The umpire overturns the decision though and the point is replayed.
Wang wins the next rally though and has set point. Raducanu can’t get to a forehand in the corner and Wang claims the second set!
*Emma Raducanu 7-5 4-5 Wang Xinyu
12:03 , Mike JonesEmma Raducanu has won three games in a row but has to hold serve again or else this match is going to a third set. Can she do it?
Wang looks like she’s had enough of defending and unleashes a few heavy hits of her own. She moves into the lead against the serve but Raducanu is back on terms after a volley goes wrong. 15-15.
Wang is a little frustrated. She goes after a second serve but smokes a forehand into the net.
Wang’s backhand abandons her again as she overhits it leaving Raducanu two attempts to close out another game.
Neither goes her way though and Wang forces the game to deuce.
*Emma Raducanu 7-5 4-5 Wang Xinyu
11:56 , Mike JonesOh my. The noise level from the supporters on Court 8 is raising. A wild backhand from Wang puts Raducanu 0-15 up and the crowd can almost feel a comeback.
Wang sprints up to the net and mullers a backhand too long putting Raducanu another point closer to a break.
Wang responds with a superb and timely ace to halt the charge only for Raducanu to set up and execute a forehand down the line!
Two break points for the Brit.
Wang saves the first one... she can’t save the second! Raducanu breaks and the second set is back on serve!
Emma Raducanu 7-5 3-5 Wang Xinyu*
11:53 , Mike JonesRaducanu is still stuck in a lull, energy and passion are both low, but she’s slowly getting through it.
The match is becoming gruelling for both players but Raducanu is wrestling some momentum back.
A cross court backhand, low and quick, puts her 30-0 and storming up to the net earns her another point.
A clip of the tape with an attempted backhand gives a point back to Wang but the Brit holds with a serve to the body.
Raducanu has almost got herself back into the set.
*Emma Raducanu 7-5 2-5 Wang Xinyu - BREAK!
11:50 , Mike JonesEmma Raducanu is hanging in there. She’s not moving well but her strokeplay has been brilliant.
Her discomfort has almost given Raducanu some clarity of thought and she pulls a break back.
Emma Raducanu 7-5 1-5 Wang Xinyu* - BREAK!
11:45 , Mike JonesThat’s a terrible start to the service game. Raducanu seems devoid of any energy as she misses her first serves and lets Wang move into the lead.
She’s not 100% out there and that’s clear to see.
An incredible forehand to the back corner from Raducanu puts her back on level terms at 30-30 but she’s making more faults from her first serve than usual.
She’s also attempting difficult shots and backing her power to get her through. It isn’t working but She’s trying to keep the rallies short
Wang breaks again!
*Emma Raducanu 7-5 1-4 Wang Xinyu
11:42 , Mike JonesThis is a big game. Wang holds!
From two break points down, she recovers and forces an error out of Raducanu to move to advantage.
Raducanu should take the next rally. She’s in control but misplaces an overhead volley and sets up Wang for a passing winner which allows her to hold.
It’s a long way back into this set for Raducanu now.
*Emma Raducanu 6-5 Wang Xinyu
11:10 , Mike Jones
