PARIS – Novak Djokovic embarked on his quest for a 25th Grand Slam title with a somewhat uneven performance in the first round of the French Open. Despite the straight-set score, Djokovic’s imperviousness was not fully on display as he secured a 6-4, 7-6 (3), 6-4 win over Pierre-Hugues Herbert. The defending champion’s “low expectations” for this tournament remain intact, but the hunger to add another major trophy to his collection burns fiercely.
A Solid Start with Room for Improvement
“I don’t want to get too excited,” Djokovic admitted. “I thought it was a good performance for me. Solid. Of course, I could have done better, I think, on return games, but also credit to him for serving very well, for changing things up.”
This season has been rougher than usual for Djokovic, and while there were glimpses of his 2024 form during the contest at Court Philippe Chatrier, he knows there’s room for improvement. As he aims to become the first player in tennis history to claim 25 Grand Slam singles trophies, Djokovic remains laser-focused on the major events that drive him.
“Grand Slams are the ones that are basically getting me up from the bed every day,” Djokovic emphasized. The pursuit of history propels him forward, and despite the occasional wobble, he remains a formidable force on the clay courts of Roland Garros.
Uneven, Yet Determined
Djokovic’s journey through the early rounds may not have been flawless, but it’s the hunger for victory that defines him. The 37-year-old Serbian superstar navigated the challenges posed by Herbert, showcasing his resilience and adaptability. The straight-sets win might not have been a masterpiece, but it was a canvas on which Djokovic painted his determination.
As the French Open unfolds, Djokovic’s path will be scrutinized. Can he maintain his focus, overcome adversity, and etch his name deeper into tennis lore? The quest for greatness continues, and the defending champion remains undeterred.
