By Erik Gudris | Tuesday, April 15, 2014

 

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga found a way to squeeze through a tough opening round match in three sets at the Monte-Carlo Masters.

Photo Credit: AP

Once again, France's hopes for success this week at the Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters fall on the shoulders of Jo-Wilfried Tsonga.

Djokovic Rips Through Montanes in 45 Minutes

When Richard Gasquet withdrew earlier due to a back injury that shuffled up the draw for Tsonga who instead of facing Ernests Gulbis drew Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber. That didn't help Tsonga's chances a whole lot though as he soon found himself in a three set battle on Tuesday.

Despite taking the first set, Tsonga found himself overwhelmed by Kohlschreiber 6-1 in the second. Not only struggling against his opponent, Tsonga also appeared hampered by a leg issues late in the final set.

Tsonga, claiming a final break of serve, managed to hold on for a 6-4, 1-6, 6-4 win. Afterward, Tsonga told L'Equipe he was still trying to find his way on clay after playing Davis Cup.

"I have not had many days for transition on clay," Tsonga said. "I took a few days off and then arrived here on Friday so I have not many days on the surface."

Tsonga, who reached the Monte-Carlo semifinals last year, is looking to restart his season after entering this year's tournament with a 12-7 win/loss record. Next up in Monte-Carlo for Tsonga will either be Roberto Bautista Agut or Fabio Fognini.

Earlier in the day, defending champion and No. 2 seed Novak Djokovic eased past Albert Montanes 6-1, 6-0. Other winners included No. 5 seed Tomas Berdych and No. 6 seed David Ferrer.