New Delhi: Novak Djokovic showed exactly why he is considered one of tennis’s all-time greats as he defeated Austrian qualifier Filip Misolic in straight sets 6-3, 6-4, 6-2. This victory marked the Serbian star’s 99th career French Open victory.
While Djokovic was at work on the tennis court, just a few blocks away, thousands of Paris Saint-Germain fans were glued to screens at the Parc des Princes, celebrating their club’s Champions League triumph. The noise and fireworks from across the street added an unusual soundtrack to Djokovic’s match at times punctuating the rallies with bursts of cheers and booms.
Despite the distractions, the three-time Roland Garros champion remained locked in as he is chasing his record 25th Grand Slam title, and gave fans a vintage display of precision and composure.
A good night in Paris. (not just in the football 😆) pic.twitter.com/fuiFPOxU2P
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) May 31, 2025
An easy test from Misolic
Though ranked 153 in the world, the 23-year-old Misolic managed to challenge the 24 Grand Slam champion in patches. Early in the match, Djokovic missed nine break points, showing a hint of frustration but the Serb’s trademark resilience shone through as he finally converted on his tenth opportunity to take a 4-2 lead in the opening set.
He didn’t look back after that, demonstrating incredible defensive skills to absorb Misolic’s power and responding with sharp counterattacks. The crowd even applauded Djokovic for his sportsmanship after he helped clean off Misolic’s clay-coated shirt following a slip.
Tennis is always fun when Novak Djokovic plays. 🤩pic.twitter.com/BctohNfboq
— Danny 🐊 (@DjokovicFan_) May 31, 2025
In the second set, Djokovic saved a crucial break point before breaking Misolic’s serve with a clean backhand winner. The third set followed a similar pattern with Djokovic dictating the pace and not allowing any serious threat to his progress.
While the French crowd balanced their attention between tennis and PSG’s celebrations, Djokovic’s performance remained unwavering. His match record at Roland Garros now stands at an impressive 99-16, equal to his Australian Open tally.
What next?
Djokovic’s next opponent is Britain’s Cameron Norrie who has played him five times, including last week in Geneva. The Serb’s record at Grand Slams against players ranked as low as Misolic remains unblemished.
As he moves into the fourth round for the 16th consecutive year, Djokovic’s quest for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title remains very much on track as he is in good rhythm.
Novak Djokovic defeats Filip Misolic to reach the fourth round, eyeing a record 25th Grand Slam title. Tennis Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
