Sinner Overcomes Rinderknech Challenge to Advance at French Open

Jannik Sinner overcomes a stern test from Arthur Rinderknech to win 6-4, 6-3, 7-5 and advance to the second round of the French Open, where he'll face retiring French veteran Richard Gasquet.

World number one Jannik Sinner overcame a brief challenge to secure a straight-sets victory over Arthur Rinderknech in the first round of the French Open. Sinner, who returned to Grand Slam tennis after a three-month doping ban, looked strong in his win, but Rinderknech pushed him hard.

“First-round matches are never easy, so I'm happy how I handled the situation coming back in the third set,” Sinner said, reflecting on his comeback from a 4-0 deficit in the third set to win 6-4, 6-3, 7-5.

Sinner, who had faced Rinderknech before, acknowledged his opponent's skill, saying, “We have played before and know each other well and he's an amazing player.” Despite Rinderknech's efforts, Sinner managed to save three break points in the third game, drawing groans from the crowd on Court Philippe Chatrier.

R1 ✅ #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/bYoDNqWUOr

— Jannik Sinner (@janniksin) May 27, 2025

Jannik Sinner took control of the match, securing a late break to win the opening set. He continued to dominate in the second set, taking a 3-1 lead before unleashing his powerful forehand from the baseline, which further solidified his grip on the match, making it seem one-sided.

World number 75 Rinderknech staged a strong comeback in the third set, taking the first four games and energizing the crowd with his celebrations. However, Sinner gradually regained momentum, recovering from 4-0 down to level at 5-5. The US Open champion then sealed the win in style, extending his winning streak at Grand Slams to 15 matches.

About his next opponent, Richard Gasquet, Sinner expressed his respect, saying, “He gave so much to our sport, he has given you all so much so I'm happy to share the court with him. I know you're going to support him, so it's OK.” Gasquet is set to retire after the French Open, adding significance to their upcoming second-round match.