In order to win a Grand Slam, you need skill, experience, and a little bit of luck.
Novak Djokovic has all three.
The 37-year-old legend began his pursuit of his 25th career Grand Slam with a decisive 6-3, 6-3, 6-3 victory over MacKenzie McDonald in the first round of the French Open.
It was a promising, albeit expected, win for Djokovic as he has struggled in some clay tournaments this year.
But winning his match wasn’t even the best part of the day for the three-time French Open champion.
Earlier in the afternoon, Daniil Medvedev was upset by unranked Cam Norrie, paving an easier road for Djokovic to advance in the tournament.
Medvedev, ranked 11th in the world, was Djokovic’s stiffest projected competition until the quarterfinals. Medvedev has beaten Djokovic five times in his career.
Now with him out of the way, the highest-ranked player the Serbian could see until then is 22nd-ranked Ugo Humbert.
The two have faced just once, at Wimbledon in 2019, where Djokovic handily won in three sets.
Djokovic happy to get the win, said first time he’s played on here since winning the Olympic gold so brought back great memories.
A great reception from the @rolandgarros crowd. 👏pic.twitter.com/xmGvEYitsf
— Pavvy G (@pavyg) May 27, 2025
It’s a great start for the 24-time Grand Slam winner, but it’s only the beginning of a long road ahead.
He’s set to face a crowd favorite in the second round. Frenchmen Coretin Moutet and Clément Tabur face off for the right to compete against one of the best to ever carry a tennis racket.
For now, Djokovic can rest easy knowing he took care of his first opponent and the field of competition is dwindling.
MORE: Novak Djokovic net worth: Career earnings, prize money, for 3-time French Open champion
Read the full article here
