Jannik Sinner battled back from being comprehensively beaten in the first set to overcome Aslan Karatsev and progress in Lyon .

Jannik Sinner fought hard after being bageled by a dominant Karatsev in the first set, going on to win 0-6, 6-3, 6-4 in two and a half hours on-court.

“Obviously it has been tough,” Sinner said in his post-match interview. “He’s a great player. Especially this year he’s had some big results so a lot of respect to [Karatsev].

“I tried to dig in deep today and in the end I’m very happy that I finished [off] the match today.”

Jannik Sinner did not win a single point behind his second serve in the first set as Karatsev dictated the set.

The 19-year-old then bounced back to take the second set 6-3 before an extended rain delay suspended play at 1-2 in the third set, on the Italian’s serve.

“Today I definitely struggled, especially in the beginning. The first set went quite fast and I tried to take a little bit of time. Then the rain came.

“So, it was not easy, but I think for a first round match I can be very happy.”

Jannik Sinner will face French lucky loser Arthur Rinderknech for a place in the quarter-finals.

(Photo credit Ray giubilo)