Richard defeated his compatriote Nicolas Mahut 7-5 4-6 7-6 (7) to meet Roger Federer in the second round at Bercy.
The first set saw few exchanges. Both players were dominant on serve. At 6-5*, Richard managed two return winners which finally lead to the decisive break. In the second set, Richard lost his serve in the fifth game. He had chances to break back twice, scored more points than his opponent, but conceded the set 4-6.
In the third set, both players had chances for a break, but the set went to a tiebreak, which Richard could win on his forth match point. Mahut threw everything at him served well and hit some breathtaking volleys, but Richard never faded and celebrated his win with unusual emotions.