Starting her French Open title defence on a Sunday did not rest easy with Justine Henin. "It's strange. I'm not sure it's a good idea," Henin said after beating Elena Vesnina of Russia 6-4, 6-3.
"It breaks our habits. Everyone's a bit lost." The fact she had to wait more then five hours to play because of a rain delay didn't help much, either.
"IT WAS SO CROWDED AT THE PLAYER'S cafeteria, men and women everywhere, overcrowded," Henin said. "That's what I hate about the start of a Grand Slam. You're not really at ease. You can't really be in a peaceful place."
Henin, who was also unhappy with the string tension of her racket, hit some loose forehands, and also lost two straight service games at the end of the first set and beginning of the second.
At least she was happier with the crowd on centre court _ even though it was about half empty.
"I GOT A GREAT RECEPTION. And that warms the heart. That's a positive thing for me today."
The French Open opened on a Sunday for the first time last year, with 28,084 spectators. There were 30,185 fans this time.
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