TENNIS: Sinner eases into French Open second round

World number one Jannik Sinner opened his French Open campaign with a dominant straight-sets win over France’s Clement Tabur, easing into the second round 6-1 6-3 6-4. The Italian looked in control throughout as he continued his strong form on the Paris clay.

Julien Pretot / Reuters

May 27, 2026

Italy's Jannik Sinner celebrates after winning his first-round match against France's Clement Tabur at the French Open at Roland Garros in Paris, France on May 26, 2026.

Stephanie Lecocq / Reuters

PARIS — World No. 1 Jannik Sinner opened his bid for a maiden French Open title with a commanding straight-sets victory over Frenchman Clement Tabur, winning 6-1, 6-3, 6-4 to advance to the second round on Tuesday at Roland Garros.

The Italian star, the heavy favorite in the absence of injured defending champion Carlos Alcaraz, delivered a clinical performance under the lights on Court Philippe-Chatrier inside Roland Garros Stadium. Sinner controlled the match from the baseline, using heavy depth and relentless pace to keep Tabur pinned deep behind the baseline.

By the time the Paris evening settled over the western stands, Sinner was already in full command, closing in on a two-set lead with minimal resistance from his opponent.

The 24-year-old entered Roland Garros carrying a 29-match winning streak, during which he had dropped only three sets. He also recently completed a career milestone by capturing all Masters 1000 titles, further cementing his status as the tour’s dominant force.

Against Tabur, however, there was little sign of vulnerability. Sinner broke early to race to a 2-0 lead and struck again to move ahead 4-1 in a dominant opening set. A powerful forehand winner sealed the set, and he carried the momentum into the second, cruising through games with minimal effort.

Tabur, ranked No. 171 in the world and appearing in only his second Grand Slam main draw, found greater rhythm in the third set. Backed loudly by the home crowd, he produced flashes of sharp shot-making that briefly energized the stadium and drew occasional errors from Sinner.

The Italian, however, quickly regained control. His superior consistency, weight of shot, and precision from the baseline gradually wore down Tabur’s resistance, closing out the match in routine fashion.

“I’m happy to be back here, where I have great memories. Overall, the first-round matches are never easy,” Sinner said after the win. He also acknowledged the crowd, adding, “Thanks for coming, thanks for the support, and thanks for being fair to me. I know I was playing a Frenchman.”

Sinner’s victory sets up a second-round appearance as he continues his pursuit of a first French Open crown in Paris. -Reporting by Julien Pretot, editing by Pritha Sarkar/Reuters