Portuguese tennis player Nuno Borges advanced to the second round of Roland-Garros after a straight-sets victory over Argentina’s Tomás Martín Etcheverry in Paris. Borges, ranked 51st in the world, won 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 in two hours and 25 minutes on Court 13, overcoming an opponent ranked significantly higher and controlling the match with aggressive, disciplined play. The result marked another successful appearance at the French Open for the 29-year-old, who is competing in the tournament for the fifth time.
Borges said after the match that his best performances in Grand Slams are linked less to a change in level and more to the demands of best-of-five-set tennis, which forces him to think differently and manage matches with greater conviction. He explained that the longer format helps him stay mentally engaged, accept difficult moments more effectively, and make clearer decisions under pressure. He also noted that the conditions in Paris were demanding, with warmer weather and a drier clay court than in some of the other tournaments he has played this season.
The Portuguese player said the surface and conditions helped his game, allowing his serve and forehand to be more effective, while also making it harder for Etcheverry to settle into rhythm. Borges acknowledged that his opponent was expected to be dangerous, but said he felt in control for much of the match, even if closing out sets brought a little extra tension.
Borges also addressed his physical condition, saying he has become highly aware of his body through years of long matches and training sessions. He dismissed any major injury concerns and said he felt healthy throughout the contest, adding that staying fit has been one of the keys to his progress on tour.
Looking ahead, Borges will face Serbia’s Miomir Kecmanović in the second round. He described the next opponent as a complete player who can perform well on all surfaces and said the match will be difficult, especially in another best-of-five contest. Still, he expressed confidence that he has a chance to compete strongly.
The Portuguese tennis player also highlighted the growing presence of Portuguese and Franco-Portuguese fans at Roland-Garros. He said the support is meaningful and reflects the growing visibility of Portuguese tennis on the international stage. Borges added that it is important for Portugal to value what its players are achieving, saying the country could benefit from building a stronger tennis culture for future generations.
For Borges, the victory in Paris was not only a statement result but also another sign of his ability to rise to the occasion at major tournaments, where the longer format and bigger stage seem to bring out some of his most effective tennis.
