'Miracle' man Ascione up against Federer

Paris - Frenchman Thierry Ascione will face Roger Federer in the second round of the French Open seven months after recovering from a near-fatal scooter accident.

He will appreciate his first round victory over Croat Marin Cilic even more now that his opponent will be the world number one who eased through into the second round against American Michael Russell on Tuesday.

"You could say I'm a miracle" said the 26-year-old after what has been a very difficult year for him on all fronts.

In November, already suffering from a spate of personal problems, Ascione was almost killed under the wheels of a car whilst riding his scooter on the streets of Paris.

Miraculously, he came out of the ordeal with only an injured foot.

However, the shock of the accident affected Ascione, who currently stands at 168th in the ATP rankings, much more than his physical injuries.

"Three months on, I was still unable to run. If someone had told me then that I would be in the main draw at Roland Garros I would never have believed them," he said.

Ascione, who reached a career high ranking of 81st in 2004, won a challenger tournament in Rome at the end of April after recovering from the crash.

"After the accident I thought my career was over... I was completely demoralised. It was an accumulation of many factors. July to February was a very difficult time. I hope I really have seen the end of it."

Ascione is clearly concerned with what will happen after Roland Garros as he is under no illusions regarding his second round tie with Federer.

"He is a monster, I am going to try to get something out of this experience. After what I have been through there is no such thing as a guaranteed win."