French Open 2017: Andy Murray overcomes wobble to beat Andrey Kuznetsov

After a regulation first set that he won in 45 minutes, the world number one lost his bearings midway through the second, dropping four games in a row to allow his 73rd-ranked opponent to square the match.

"He goes for shots, plays very aggressive and tries to take you to the baseline. He has had a good clay court season so I knew it would be difficult,” Murray said who was broken three times during the second set.

The Brit found his range as the match progressed, however, dropping only two games as he reeled off sets three and four in quick succession.

However, Kuznetsov, whose best performance at Roland Garros came in 2015 when he reached the third round, wilted as the match progressed, finishing with 45 unforced errors.

Murray, who will face Martin Klizan in the second round, hit 29 winners to wrap up proceedings in two hours and 33 minutes.

“The slams have so much history; they are very special places to play," Murray said after the match.

“Every time I come back, I try to enjoy them and give it my best shot as I don’t know how many chances I am going to have to play at these events. You know, maybe two or three more times, or four hopefully if I am lucky. So, I want to make the most of them.”