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Rafael Nadal dropped the first set to D. Brands, 6 -4, then needed a tie break to wrestle away the second set, 7 -6 before going on to victory with a 6 – 4 third set and 6 – 3 fourth and decisive set. It was not easy for Rafa, this young German player (age 25) came to play. Rafa is safely through his first match on the red clay and will look to win his record 8th trophy at this event. Also advancing was American John Isner. The #5 seed, Thomas Berdych was upset by G. Monfils, 7 – 6, 6 – 4, 6 – 7, 6- 7, 7 – 5. Monfils was once a member of the top twenty but the popular and charismatic Frenchman has been out due to injury and is in the event this year as a qualifier. Monfil is always fun to watch and he did not disappoint today in front of the French crowd on a beautiful day in Paris.
On the woman’s side, defending champion Maria Sharapova easily defeated S. Heieh, 6 – 2, 6 -1. Also advancing, Li Na, A. Kerber, A. Radwanska, Caroline Wozniacki, and American Sloane Stephens.
Novak Djokovic is scheduled to play his first match tomorrow as is Victoria Azarenka. Unfortunately, rain is in the forecast for the next couple of days in Paris.
