PARIS (AP) — Yanina Wickmayer defeated Elena Vesnina of Russia 7-6 (1), 6-2 in the first round of the Open Gaz de France on Wednesday.
The Belgian saved a break point at 4-2 down in the first set and will face Klara Zakopalova of the Czech Republic.
Sixth-seeded Andrea Petkovic of Germany overcame problems on her serve to beat Angelique Kerber 7-5, 3-6, 6-2. Petkovic faced 17 break points in the match, losing her serve five times. She will play Kristina Kucova of Slovakia in the second round.
Later, Australian Open champion Kim Clijsters will playing Kristina Barrois. Clijsters won the tournament in 2004, and can overtake top-ranked Caroline Wozniacki if she reaches the semifinals.
