In a highly anticipated first-round clash at the 2024 edition of the French Open, Stan Wawrinka, 39, showed his supremacy over fellow veteran Andy Murray, 37, by securing a decisive victory in straight sets (6-4, 6-4, 6-2). The match took place at the illustrious Philippe-Chatrier court, marking yet another chapter in their storied rivalry. Wawrinka's powerful and consistent gameplay left Murray struggling to keep up, ending the Briton's campaign in the first round, a fate that has plagued him at Roland-Garros since 2017.
Wawrinka’s victory was historic, accentuating his familiarity and expertise on the Philippe-Chatrier court, where he has previously garnered significant success. The Swiss player, a winner of the 2015 French Open and a finalist in 2017, will advance to the second round to face the winner of the duel between Cameron Norrie and Pavel Kotov. This match highlights Wawrinka's unyielding form even as he approaches the twilight of his career.
The first day of Roland-Garros 2024 offered a lot more action for tennis enthusiasts. Notably, former world No. 1 Naomi Osaka kicked off the tournament facing Lucia Bronzetti on the Philippe-Chatrier court, followed by a match between Carlos Alcaraz and JJ Wolf. Meanwhile, Russian Andrey Rublev, fresh off his victory in Madrid, faced Japan's Taro Daniel on the Simonne-Mathieu court.
French players were well-represented on Sunday, with Caroline Garcia, Ugo Humbert, and Richard Gasquet among those competing. Garcia played against Eva Lys on the Central court, Humbert took on Lorenzo Sonego on Suzanne-Lenglen, and Gasquet faced Borna Coric on the same court. Other French hopefuls included Chloé Paquet, Corentin Moutet, Harold Mayot, and Alexandre Müller, all of whom battled on various courts throughout the day.
Overall, the first night session and opening day's matches of Roland-Garros 2024 showcased a mix of seasoned professionals and rising stars, making for an exhilarating start to the Grand Slam event. Tennis fans are eagerly awaiting how the tournament will unfold, especially with such high-caliber performances right from the beginning.
- Interestingly, Andy Murray has repeatedly found himself halted by Stan Wawrinka at the French Open. In 2017, Murray was eliminated by Wawrinka in the semi-finals, and in 2020, upon his return after a hip operation, Wawrinka once again sent him packing. Missing the 2021 to 2023 editions due to injuries, Murray's recent defeat marks his third consecutive Roland-Garros exit at the hands of the Swiss player.
- The broader context of the tournament sees other key players vying for prominence. Naomi Osaka's return to Grand Slam tennis is particularly significant as she aims to regain her form following a hiatus. Young talent Carlos Alcaraz is expected to put up a strong performance, aiming to make deeper runs in this Grand Slam.
- For the home crowd, French players' participation adds an extra layer of excitement. Caroline Garcia, seeded 21st, Ugo Humbert, seeded 17th, and other French competitors bring national pride and high hopes to the court.
- The meticulous scheduling of the matches ensures that spectators can enjoy a variety of high-stake encounters across different courts, from early morning until late evening.
