‘Never easy’ – Jannik Sinner happy with start after 2023 French Open victory over Alexandre Muller

Jannik Sinner was pleased to get through the first round of the French Open, where it is “never easy”.

The 21-year-old Italian is one of the contenders to take over from tennis’ Big Three given the absence of competition specialist Rafael Nadal leaves just Novak Djokovic in contention.

Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev are the top two seeds, but Sinner is another player who could find his way into the final.

On Monday, Sinner defeated home favourite Alexandre Muller 6-1 6-4 6-1 for a straight sets victory to reach the second round.

He faces Daniel Altmaier from Germany on Thursday.

Speaking after the match on court, Sinner said: “I think it’s never easy, especially in the first round. It’s obviously a huge honour to play the night session here on the centre court. Thanks for the support. I know it’s a French player but it’s a very nice atmosphere here, but I tried to play my tennis, there was a lot of wind but I was very happy with my performance.

“I think today I served very well against the wind. I had to be smart, obviously when you break someone early in the set it’s easier on the serve. It’s never easy to play here against a French player. Hopefully I can show a good level in the next round.”

Asked over coaching team Simone Vagnozzi and Darren Cahill, he explained: “I think the combination with Darren and SImone is a good combination and I feel safe with them.

“He gives me a lot of motivation before tough matches. He knows tactically how to play against other players. It’s a very key point for me and hopefully we can see the hard work on the court.”

– – –