Roger Federer overcame a fearless Novak Djokovic 6-3, 2-6, 6-3 to advance to the second round of the Masters Series Monte Carlo presented by Rolex. The Swiss star started his clay court season with a win in spite of being broken twice in two opportunities and winning only 33% when returning. Federer will now play against clay court specialist Alberto Martin and could meet Sebastien Grosjean in the third round.

No. 3 seed David Nalbandian was also succesful on his 2006 clay court debut with a 6-4, 6-4 win over Xavier Malisse. The Argentine broke serve three times while getting his serve broken once to clinch the victory in 1 hour, 20 minutes. Nalbandian looks to advance far in the draw this year and shorten the points difference with Rafael Nadal and Federer since he didn't play this event in 2005. 

No. 11 seed Juan Carlos Ferrero posted a convincing 6-1, 6-2 win over Dmitry Tursunov and looks to leave behind a first round loss in Valencia last week. No. 9 seed  Nicolas Kiefer also advanced with a grueling 6-4, 4-6, 7-6(2) win over net rusher Max Mirnyi.

In other matches, in-form Jose Acasuso clipped Filippo Volandri 6-4, 6-2 while Andreas Seppi, Radek Stepanek and Jan Hernych also advanced to the second round.