Baez Faces Kecmanovic as First Round Battle Begins at Roland Garros

PARIS, France — Round-one action at Roland Garros continues on Monday with a showdown between Sebastian Baez and Miomir Kecmanovic. The match marks their third career meeting, with Kecmanovic winning both previous encounters earlier this year.

Kecmanovic, ranked 46th, won their last match at the Paris Indoors in January, bouncing Baez in a hard-fought three-set battle. Kecmanovic seeks to continue this success on the clay surface of Paris, a stark contrast to the grass courts of Eastbourne where he previously defeated Baez 6-3, 6-2.

Despite the favorable clay conditions for Baez, who is ranked 38th, his recent performance has raised concerns. He has struggled in the lead-up to the tournament, managing only one win in his last seven matches. Kecmanovic, although similarly inconsistent, found strength in reaching the semifinals of a Challenger tournament in Estoril. This adds pressure on Baez as he tries to turn around his poor form.

On the opposite side of the court, 10th-ranked Holger Rune is set to kick off his tournament against veteran Roberto Bautista Agut. Rune has defeated Bautista Agut in their two prior meetings and is expected to have a significant advantage on clay.

Rune’s most notable achievement this season was winning the title in Barcelona, which adds to his confidence after fluctuating performances. Bautista Agut, 37, is ranked 49th and has a tough task ahead as he has lost both of his past matches against Rune.

The first-round matches at Roland Garros have drawn much attention, with fans eager to see if the younger players can maintain their momentum against seasoned opponents.