World No.1 Jannik Sinner passed a significant test in his Roland-Garros 2025 opener, digging deep to defeat Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech in straight sets: 6-4, 6-3, 7-5. Despite falling behind 0-4 and 2-5 in the third set, the top seed mounted a composed comeback to seal his place in the second round on Monday night at Court Philippe-Chatrier.
A Different Challenge in Paris
Speaking before the tournament, Sinner admitted he expected Roland-Garros to feel “different” from his recent return in Rome — his first tournament after a three-month layoff. On Monday, he experienced just that: no longer the hometown favorite and playing best-of-five instead of best-of-three, the challenge was clear.
Still, Sinner stuck to his now-familiar script when it comes to Slam openers. With this win, he improved to 18-4 in Grand Slam first-round matches, having won his last 15 since a surprise defeat at Wimbledon in 2021.
Rinderknech Pushed the Top Seed
Rinderknech, recently married and playing in front of a home crowd, looked inspired early on. He had previously beaten Sinner on clay back in 2021 and entered Monday’s clash determined to make the most of his shot.
Sinner saved three break points in the first set before breaking for the opener. He didn’t face another break point until the third set, where Rinderknech surged to a 5-2 lead. But despite his strong position, the Frenchman failed to earn a set point — and Sinner roared back, winning the final five games to close out the match.
“I’m Very Happy with How I Handled It”
“First-round matches are never easy,” Sinner said after the win. “He played very well in the third set. That first break [at 2-0] was very important — if it had gone to 5-0, it’s nearly impossible to come back. I tried to stay positive and have the right mindset. I’m very happy with how I did that.”
Elite Company
Sinner continues to cement his place among the greats of the modern era. With this win, he extends his streak of victories against players ranked outside the top 20 to 62 matches — a run dating back to August 2023.
He has also now won 15 consecutive Grand Slam matches, a stretch that includes titles at the 2024 Australian Open and the 2023 US Open. He joins Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Carlos Alcaraz as the only men in the past two decades to achieve such a feat.
Next Up: A Farewell Clash with Gasquet
Awaiting Sinner in the second round is French veteran Richard Gasquet — a player he faced at the same stage last year. This time, however, the matchup carries added meaning. The 38-year-old Gasquet is playing the final tournament of his career.
“It’s going to be very special,” Sinner said. “He’s given so much to tennis and has been a part of the sport for so long. I’ve watched him for years, just like many fans. I’m honored to share the court with him again.”
