Rafael Nadal’s first-round scare at Roland Garros

Rafael Nadal is a four-time champion in the French Open and so far, he only has one loss on the clay courts of Roland Garros. Coming in as the tournament favourite, Nadal started his campaign against a kid ranked as No. 6555 in the world. Talking about his first game in the tourney, Rafael Nadal grinned “Really bad!”

In all honesty, Nadal wasn’t in his best shape. Gianna Mina, his 18-year-old opponent who was runner up last year in the junior’s tournament, was able to get nine break points in the match.

“I was practising really well all the days, I played very well at three tournaments (winning in Monte Carlo, Rome and Madrid) but the first day here is always a little bit more nervous than usual”, said Nadal. “I think I played bad, but I won anyway, without problems, so that's always important and positive thing. But I can do a lot better next round.

As for his second round match, Rafa is expected to have the advantage of knowing his opponent. According to Nadal himself, his friends say Argentina’s Horacio Zeballos has a great serve. Nadal also knows that his opponent hits strong, vowing to play a more consistent and regular tennis.

Nadal’s first game is an indication of the tight race in this year’s French Open. This is sure to shake the betting odds for Tennis. Patrons of online tennis betting and bookmakers alike will be thrilled with excitement as the tournament unfolds.

Online betting sites such as 888sport.com offers free bets and guides for first-timers.