FRENCH OPEN DAILY REPORT : Muster Starts Defense of His Title With Victory and a Few Reflections

Defending men’s champion Thomas Muster made his first appearance at the French Open a quick and efficient one Tuesday. Muster defeated Frederik Fetterlein of Denmark, 6-4, 6-2, 6-4.

Newly philosophical, Muster now reflects on his life at least once a day during interviews.

“My goals, every day I wake up in the morning, I enjoy going on the court and playing tennis,” Muster said. “That’s my goal. I enjoy playing, but I enjoy winning more. That’s just a combination I like. As I have said, it’s nothing I have to prove to anybody else, except myself. That’s a conversation I have to make with my heart. When I go out there and play, I feel this is the thing I enjoy most. That’s why it’s great to play.”

Michael Chang advanced, defeating Davis Prinosil of Germany, 6-1, 6-1, 6-2.

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Women’s defending champion Steffi Graf also won, defeating Larisa Neiland of Latvia, 6-3, 6-2.

“It was a good first match to have,” Graf said. “There were some nice shots. The only thing I could be a little critical of was my serve. Otherwise, I was feeling I was hitting the ball fine.”

Arantxa Sanchez Vicario of Spain, a finalist last year, won easily, beating Andrea Glass of Germany, 6-2, 6-3. Countrywoman Conchita Martinez defeated Els Callens of Belgium, 6-1, 6-1, in 49 minutes.

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Top-seeded Pete Sampras will continue his difficult draw today, facing former champion Sergi Bruguera of Spain.