Roger Federer "very, very happy" after Paris extends warm welcome back
The 2009 champion is embracing his opportunity to play at Roland Garros again.
Roger Federer is enjoying the ride during his first clay-court swing since 2015. The 20-time major champion officially made his return to Roland Garros on Sunday when taking Court Philippe Chatrier for his first-round match with Lorenzo Sonego.
“All of a sudden these years go by and you haven’t played,” Federer said. “Now I am very happy I took that decision because I enjoyed Madrid, I enjoyed Rome… the reception I got today was crazy. It was really nice to see a full stadium for a first round like this so I’m very, very happy."
Federer clearly did not miss a beat on the Parisian clay after missing the past three events. The 2009 French Open winner dispatched the talented young Italian 6-2, 6-4, 6-4 in one hour and 41 minutes.
“I feel that the public missed me, and I missed them, as well.” said Federer. "After not playing here for many years, there was some buzz, which I could feel on the central court when I was training and when I was playing today. It was rather cool, rather pleasant, and I really loved the welcome I got on the court. I hope that it continues like this."
Federer will not play again until Wednesday, where he will face lucky loser Oscar Otte. The German defeated Malek Jaziri 6-3, 6-1, 4-6, 6-0 earlier Sunday.
