Thiem makes successful French Open debut

While many experts continue to take offense at Dominic Thiem's non-invitation to the main draw, the Austrian made it through the first round of qualifying (3-6, 6-3, 6-2 in 2h19).

On a packed Suzanne Lenglen court, the former world number 3 came out on top, despite a very complicated start to the match. Up against Franco Agamenone (228th), 'Domi' gradually built up his power (40 winners, 41 unforced errors, 4 aces), finally smothering a much less powerful opponent (20 winners, 35 unforced errors). Delighting the audience with some magnificent points, he logically booked his place in the second qualifying round.

With the French public behind him, the future retiree can breathe a sigh of relief: he won't be leaving Paris by the narrowest of margins. In the next round, he will meet Otto Virtanen (156th), who defeated Dane Sweeny on Monday (6-2, 6-3).

The two-time finalist at the Paris event is now just two matches away from a last-ever appearance in the Roland Garros final draw. The US Open 2020 winner's adventures will probably continue on Wednesday.