World No. 1 Jannik Sinner made a strong start to his French Open campaign with a straight-sets victory over Arthur Rinderknech in the opening round. Returning to action after a brief absence, the Italian showed his quality with a 6-4, 6-3, 7-5 win.

“First-round matches are never easy,” Sinner told the crowd after the match. “I’m very happy with how I handled the situation, especially in the third set. I want to thank everyone who came out and was so fair to me too. I know he’s a French player, but I felt very appreciated.”

The 22-year-old also took a moment to acknowledge the support of his compatriot and close friend: “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.”

Sinner will face another Frenchman, Richard Gasquet, in the second round. Gasquet advanced after defeating Terence Atmane 6-2, 2-6, 6-3, 6-0.

While Sinner enters the match as the clear favourite against the world No. 166, Gasquet’s vast experience—spanning over two decades—could pose a challenge for the Italian.