from Reuters
25 May 2004

PARIS, May 25 (Reuters) – Defending French Open champion Juan Carlos Ferrero, doubtful before the tournament with a rib injury, beat German Tommy Haas 3-6 6-4 6-4 6-2 to ease into the second round on Tuesday.

The Spaniard, seeded fourth, only made a last-minute decision to play but recovered from an erratic start to seal victory in two hours and 46 minutes.

Two years ago, Ferrero was also on the verge of retiring because of an ankle problem and went on to reach the final.

He faced a tricky opening match against Haas, ranked number two in the world in 2002, the year he reached the fourth round at Roland Garros.