By Erik Gudris | Saturday, May 24, 2014

 

Venus Williams faces a talented teen in a must-see opening round match on Day One at Roland Garros.

Photo Credit: AP

Opening Day at the French Open features both defending champion Serena Williams and former winner Roger Federer in action on Sunday. Yet there's a trio first round matches that are the easy must-sees on day one.

French Open: Federer Feeling Good About Paris

(3) Agnieszka Radwanska vs. Zhang Shuai

China's Zhang Shuai just missed being seeded for this year's event by one spot. That makes her a very tough opening round opponent for the crafty Radwanska who won their sole meeting two years ago in Beijing. This match is a worthy start to main draw play on Court Philippe Chartier.

(29) Venus Williams vs. Belinda Bencic

One of the oldest players in the draw faces off against one of the youngest in this second career meeting for both. Rising swiss hope Bencic has the game to pull off the upset over the elder Williams who hasn't done much on clay this season. Venus will have to hope her power sees her through to the second round.

(8) Milos Raonic vs. Nick Krygios

Raonic proved in Rome that he's becoming a better clay court player. He'll need his big serve and more against the young Aussie Krygios whose powerful all-court game makes him one to watch for the future. Raonic should prevail but this could be an entertaining one for sure.

Trend to Watch:

The weather in Paris may prove a huge factor during the tournament. Rain is expected throughout the week.

Stat of the Day:

Federer is competing in his 58th consecutive Grand Slam event in Paris. That extends his record for the longest streak of Open Era Grand Slam singles appearances.

The complete order of play can be found here.