C. GARCIA/T. Townsend
6-3, 6-4
THE MODERATOR: There was only one match point that was won. However, it was a very tough match. How did you manage to handle that part of the match?
CAROLINE GARCIA: It was a very tough match for an opening match. I haven't played a tournament match for quite some time, so it's hard to start a Grand Slam match. It was very windy, as well, on court.
It's true that it was very tough. There were crunchy moments, and I managed to be more aggressive at important points.
THE MODERATOR: Questions in French.
Q. You haven't played for quite some time. How did you feel? How did you feel with regards to the crowd?
CAROLINE GARCIA: I haven't played for eight weeks, indeed. So it's true that I had quite some apprehension. But, you know, practicing and playing matches are quite different.
But my body reacted well, so it's quite positive. It bodes well for the rest of the tournament. It was wonderful to have the support of the crowd. There was a lot of people. It's always pleasant to play matches in these conditions, especially that we haven't had such a public before. So it was very enjoyable to play on court.
Q. Throughout the seasons you have managed to get a lot of experience. How did you manage to handle this first match with your wound?
CAROLINE GARCIA: It's true that I have some experience now with my staff. We managed to follow the protocol as we should. I was already satisfied with being able to play today, to be on court.
I had also other weapons. I was fresher, as well. I have been playing on clay court for quite some time now.
I also have some strong shots. I have already played at Roland Garros many years, and I was fresher. Of course I was not that much confident about my assets today, but it went well.
FastScripts Transcript by ASAP Sports