Spain's Rafael Nadal in action during his French Open first round match against Belarus' Egor Gerasimov at Roland Garros, Paris. Photo: Reuters/Gonzalo FuentesClaycourt master Rafael Nadal started his quest for a record-extending 13th French Open title with a straightforward 6-4 6-4 6-2 first-round win against Belarusian Egor Gerasimov on Monday. The Spaniard, looking to equal Roger Federer's record of 20 Grand Slam men's singles titles, is used to slow starts at Roland Garros and this year's debut was no different. It's a different Roland Garros with challenging weather conditions," said Nadal. He broke in the fifth game as he bagged the opening set in solid fashion, and he stole his opponent's serve again in the third game of the second.

Source: Irish Independent September 28, 2020 18:33 UTC