Richard has defeated Jan Hernych 6-1, 7-5.
In the second round he will face Marc Giquel. The match will be first in the evening session starting at 7.00pm. Thursday's order of play
Richard enjoyed a superb first set of tennis against Hernych. Building up his attack from the baseline, Richard secured an early break, taking a 3-1 lead. At 4-1, Richard applied more pressure and pushed ahead with a double break.
Serving for the set, a trademark backhand winner with some big serving took Richard to 40-0 and three set points. At 40-15, a mid court, forehand winner sealed the set 6-1.
Richard again ceased the momentum and went up an early break in the second set, out rallying Hernych with some strong groundstrokes.
At 3-2, Richard saved three break points, with some help from a sublime backhand, and spectacular all-court play.
However, Hernych scrambled a foothold back into the match, breaking Richard to level the set at 4-4.
Richard did not relent his hold on the match for long, and upped the pressure to grab a crucial break at 5-5.
Serving for the match at 6-5, two aces helped Richard to get to match point. With the crowd chanting "Richard! Richard!", Richard hit an unreturnable serve to book himself a place in the second round.