Novak Djokovic began his campaign for a 25th major trophy Sunday at Roland Garros.
Making just his fourth tour-level appearance of the season, and with uncertainty about his physical level, Djokovic produced a solid opening-round performance.
“It was a good match to be part of, three hours, just what the doctor ordered, at age 39. Here we go,” Djokovic said in his press conference after overcoming Frenchman Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard 5-7, 7-5, 6-1, 6-4.
A three-time champion in Paris, Djokovic was fully aware of the stern test in facing big-serving Mpetshi Perricard. The Serbian let slip nine break points before finally converting his 10th chance against the home hope’s serve.
“I think nobody wants him in the draw, to be honest,” the third seed said of Mpetshi Perricard. “If he puts certain things together, he can have a really bright future. Obviously playing a French player, centre court, Roland Garros, is never so easy. Obviously the crowd gets into it and then you feel the pressure even more.”
Djokovic is making a record-breaking 82nd major appearance this fortnight. With his latest win, the 39-year-old improved to 8-3 this season. He entered the clay-court major with just one match on the surface this year.
“The body is feeling all right for now,” said Djokovic, whose best result this season is a run to the Australian Open final. “Of course I have to get the game together, and hopefully that will happen as I progress.”
The 101-time tour-level titlist will next meet another Frenchman in Valentin Royer. It will be their first Lexus ATP Head2Head meeting.
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