Roger Federer cuts an imposing figure when dressed, as he was at Roland Garros yesterday, in jet black.

Given how much the French Open crowds love his rival Rafael Nadal, it is an appropriate colour for the Swiss, for if this were a spaghetti Western, he would undoubtedly be cast in the role of bad guy challenging the sheriff to a shoot-out.

There have been quite a few high noons between Federer and Nadal on clay, including two finals here and there is every likelihood of a repeat in just under two weeks' time, especially if Federer continues to play with the authority with which he dispatched American Sam Querrey in the first round yesterday.

Federer must have been pleased to play early while Nadal, who was rostered to play Brazil's Thomaz Bellucci in his first round match later in the day, fell victim to the rain and did not even get on court. More wet weather is forecast for today so the Spaniard may have to wait even longer before beginning his campaign to win a fourth consecutive French Open title.

"This gives me a few days now again to practice, and hopefully I can play a bit better the next match," said Federer after his victory over Querrey.

The French lost another favourite yesterday when Richard Gasquet, who was seeded in Federer's half of the draw, pulled out before his first match with knee trouble. Gasquet's withdrawal follows that of injured Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, another whom the locals hoped to challenge the likes of Federer and Nadal.