Tennis News Blog

Kuerten loses in French Open farewell
Gustavo Kuerten bid farewell to tennis Sunday in the first round of the French Open, losing 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 to Paul-Henri Mathieu at the site of his biggest triumphs. The former top-ranked Brazilian won three French Open titles. “Here, it is my life, my passion and my love,” Kuerten said in French. “It’s great to have my family here, my coach. But more important was the love you gave me.” The 31-year-old Kuerten has been bothered by a hip injury since 2001.

Serena rolls, Ivanovic struggles in win
Two-time Grand Slam runner-up Ana Ivanovic struggled with her serve Sunday before reaching the second round on the opening day of the French Open by beating Sofia Arvidsson 6-2, 7-5. The second-ranked Ivanovic, who became the first player representing Serbia to play in a major final at last year’s French Open, had six double-faults on center court and was broken by her Swedish opponent when serving for the first set at 5-1. “Lots of memories from last year.

Federer moves on at Roland Garros
Roger Federer made a winning return to the French Open, the only Grand Slam title he has never won. The top-ranked Federer beat Sam Querrey of the United States 6-4, 6-4, 6-3 Monday in the first round at Roland Garros, where the 12-time major champion is trying to become only the sixth man to complete a career Grand Slam. Federer was broken once early in the first set, but he managed to win five times on Querrey’s serve. “It’s always difficult in the first round at Grand Slams,” Federer said.

Venus overcomes second-set lapse to advance
Venus Williams nearly became the first big-name casualty before rallying to beat Tzipora Obziler at the French Open.