Gilles Simon blasts past Frederico Gil in Monaco

Gilles Simon has booked a spot in the third round of the Monte Carlo Masters after defeating Frederico Gil 6-3 6-0 in Monaco.

The first set started off fairly equal with both players claiming a break of serve in the early stages of the contest, which prevented either of the round-two opponents from taking an advantage.

A breakthrough could have been made by either player, but Simon was the first to take the break and sustain the lead, which led him to a one-set advantage in the match.

The 27-year-old Frenchman kept control of the tie and managed to take a three-to-love lead in the opening stages of the second set.

It wasn't long before the world number 13 ended his Portuguese opponent's hopes of progressing through the tournament by claiming a six-to-love second-set victory.