Gulbis then fashioned a break-point chance in game 10, only for Murray to respond with a service winner of his own.

BBC: Murray starts with convincing win

But he recovered to 5-5 and then won an epic rally with a dipping backhand to the Finn's feet before finding a service winner on set point.

BBC: Murray comes through Paris opener

Not much to cheer for after that, though: Williams won the next three points with a 111 mph ace, a 100 mph ace, and a 101 mph service winner.

NPR: Ex-No. 1 Jankovic Advances At Rainy French Open