Novak Djokovic secured his place in the fourth round of the French Open for the 16th consecutive year, defeating qualifier Filip Misolic with a score of 6-3, 6-4, 6-2. The match was notable for the background noise of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) fans celebrating their team’s remarkable 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in the Champions League final, which created a lively atmosphere punctuated by fireworks from nearby Parc des Princes.
Djokovic, who initially aimed to avoid a scheduling clash with the final so he could watch it, remarked on the crowd’s engagement with the football match, exclaiming, “It was interesting. The crowd was really following the game… Quite a result, to be honest.” The intense match had its distractions; fans even erupted in cheers during pivotal points of the tennis game, prompting the chair umpire to request quiet from the crowd.
This year’s tournament has seen the seasoned player dominate, winning all nine sets against his opponents thus far. In his match against Misolic, the 38-year-old displayed his experience and skill, rolling through the contest with 33 winners and only 14 unforced errors, while saving the sole break point he faced. Despite a slight hiccup where he failed to convert numerous break points initially, Djokovic ultimately took control of the match decisively.
With this victory, Djokovic pushed his lifetime record at Roland-Garros to 99-16, tying his match win count at the Australian Open. His aim now is to advance to the quarter-finals against Cameron Norrie, a player he has previously defeated five times.
Norrie is known for his tenacity on the court, establishing himself as a tough competitor. Djokovic acknowledged this and noted, “He’s a big fighter. He’s a grinder,” reflecting on their prior encounters, including a recent match in Geneva where Djokovic claimed his 100th career title.
Having previously faced injury-related setbacks at Roland-Garros, including withdrawing last year due to a knee issue, Djokovic is focused on maintaining his high level of play as he moves deeper into the tournament. As the festivities continue into the night in Paris, he looks set for what promises to be an exciting competition ahead.