Novak Djokovic has clinched a spot in the second round of the French Open after claiming a 7-6 6-3 6-1 victory over Potito Starace.
The world number one endured a tough first set against his Italian opponent, who managed to hold his own against the Serbian and was close to causing an upset on a number of occasions during Djokovic's service games.
While the Wimbledon champion displayed some impressive movement and precise backhands across the clay court, Starace held firm on serve and managed to push Djokovic to a tie-break in the early stages of the contest.
Despite a strong challenge to take the lead in Paris, it was Djokovic who outclassed his opponent in the tie-break, which gave the Serbian a one-set cushion in the match.
Djokovic displayed a more composed performance in the second set and was able to capitalise on his competitor's mistakes and take control of the clash.
While Starace tried to force a breakthrough, the 30-year-old relinquished a number of vital breaks of serve, which enabled Djokovic to snatch the advantage and go two sets up.
The third set became somewhat of a formality for the Serbian, who managed to clinch victory on six games to one.
Danielle Joynson
