Roger Federer "very, very happy" after Paris extends warm welcome back

Roger Federer is enjoying the ride during his first clay-court swing since 2015. The 20-time major champion officially made his return to Roland Garros on Sunday when taking Court Philippe Chatrier for his first-round match with Lorenzo Sonego.

“All of a sudden these years go by and you haven’t played,” Federer said. “Now I am very happy I took that decision because I enjoyed Madrid, I enjoyed Rome… the reception I got today was crazy. It was really nice to see a full stadium for a first round like this so I’m very, very happy."

Federer clearly did not miss a beat on the Parisian clay after missing the past three events. The 2009 French Open winner dispatched the talented young Italian 6-2, 6-4, 6-4 in one hour and 41 minutes.

“I feel that the public missed me, and I missed them, as well.” said Federer. "After not playing here for many years, there was some buzz, which I could feel on the central court when I was training and when I was playing today. It was rather cool, rather pleasant, and I really loved the welcome I got on the court. I hope that it continues like this."

Federer will not play again until Wednesday, where he will face lucky loser Oscar Otte. The German defeated Malek Jaziri 6-3, 6-1, 4-6, 6-0 earlier Sunday.