Returning to Philippe Chatrier court, the site of his most painful career defeat, Sinner began his quest for the only Grand Slam title he lacks in a convincing manner. The Italian player did not face a single break point during the match, which lasted 2 hours and 10 minutes.

Sinner during his match against Tabur on Philippe Chatrier court, Paris, France on 26/5. *Reuters*.

A year ago, Sinner missed three championship points against Carlos Alcaraz in the Roland Garros final. In his return this year, the 24-year-old quickly established himself as a top contender for the championship in Paris, especially with rival Alcaraz absent due to injury.

Beyond his determination to erase last year's painful memory, Sinner has additional strong motivation at Roland Garros 2026. The number one seed is aiming for a Career Grand Slam, an achievement only six male players have completed in the Open Era.

"I am very happy to be back at Roland Garros", Sinner said after the match. "This is a very special place, and overall I have many good memories here. First-round matches are always tough, but starting the tournament in an evening session makes it even better".

In his first encounter with world number 171 Tabur, Sinner completely dominated the match from the baseline. He hit 40 winners and displayed impressive defensive skills with many difficult shots, notably a forehand save from the back of the court followed by a backhand winner in the third set.

Sinner currently holds a 30-match winning streak after claiming all five ATP Masters 1000 titles this season: the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, Miami Open, Monte Carlo Masters, Madrid Open, and Italian Open in Rome.

The championship in Rome nine days ago also made Sinner the second player in history, and the youngest, to complete a collection of nine different Masters titles after Novak Djokovic.

Sinner, a four-time Grand Slam champion, will face Juan Manuel Cerundolo in the second round. Previously, the Argentinian player defeated Jacob Fearnley with a score of 6-2, 7-6(0), 7-6(7). In Sinner's half of the draw, fourth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime struggled to overcome Daniel Altmaier 4-6, 6-4, 4-6, 6-1, 7-6(7) in the latest match on 26/5.

Vy Anh