PARIS - Rafael Nadal was one set away from victory before rain interrupted his match against Italy's Simone Bolelli in the men's singles first round of the French Open here on Monday.

The same day witnessed last year's runner-up Stan Wawrinka bow out through full sets.

Ten-time winner Nadal saw a change of his first opponent at Roland Garros this year, as lucky loser Bolelli replaced injured Alexandr Dolgopolov of Ukraine in the main draw.

Bolelli kept himself within touch from Nadal through his powerful backhand, as he held serves for a 4-4 tie after the eighth game, but the "King of Clay" broke Bolelli's service in the 10th game to set the opening set 6-4.

Bolelli heated up quicker after the interval and finished his break in the first game, before extending his lead to 3-1.

Nadal, in quest for his 11th title at Roland Garros, then won five games in a row to move on.

After Bolelli took away the first three games of the third set, the downpours delayed the duel to Tuesday.

Maria Sharapova, who made her return to Roland Garros after two years, also needs to play her first round against Richel Hogenkamp of the Netherlands one day later than schedule.