Rafael Nadal is on course to retain his French Open title after coming through his opening fixture 6-2 6-2 6-1 against Simone Bolelli.

The Spanish professional began the defence of his title on the front foot in Paris and proved why he is known as the 'king of clay' by controlling the court with power and precision during his service games.

The 25-year-old managed to grab the first break of serve and continued in his rich vein of form that helped him win the Rome Open title a week ago.

Bolelli could only claim two games in the opening set as Nadal snatched the lead on the main court.

The second set produced more of the same for Nadal, who prevented his Italian opponent from enforcing his game on the former world number one.

Nadal doubled his lead comfortably without much challenge from Bolelli, who again could only win two games in the second set.

The former Wimbledon champion strolled through the third and final set in order to progress into the second round and continue the fight to retain his title at the Roland Garros