Djokovic Begins Roland Garros Title Defense with Hard-Fought Win

Novak Djokovic, the world's top-ranked tennis player, has begun his quest for a fourth Roland Garros title with a hard-fought opening victory over French wild card Pierre-Hugues Herbert. The 6-4, 7-6 (3), 6-4 win was a testament to Djokovic's resilience and determination, as he navigated a tricky three-set battle under the lights of Court Philippe-Chatrier.

Djokovic, who must reach at least the final to maintain his No. 1 ranking, has been searching for his best form in 2024. He began the season with a surprising semifinal defeat at the Australian Open to Jannik Sinner and withdrew from the Miami Open after a shock opening-round loss to Luca Nardi. Despite these setbacks, Djokovic remains one of the favorites to win in Paris, where he has triumphed three times before.

Herbert, a former world No. 36, has since fallen out of the Top 100 but made the most of his night session scheduling in front of an enthusiastic home crowd. He broke back after trailing by a break in the second set and forced a tiebreaker, which Djokovic ultimately won.

In the third set, Herbert continued to keep things close, saving a pair of break points in the fourth game. However, Djokovic's relentless pressure eventually paid off, as Herbert committed an ill-timed double fault that put him two points from defeat. Djokovic sealed the victory with a strong forehand winner and a backhand down the line, sending Herbert over the finish line.

Awaiting Djokovic in the second round is Roberto Carballés Baena, who overcame a late surge from Constant Lestienne to defeat the Frenchman in four sets. Djokovic has beaten the unseeded Spaniard twice at Grand Slam tournaments, most recently at the 2023 Australian Open.

Tags: #RolandGarros, #NovakDjokovic, #PierreHuguesHerbert, #Tennis, #FrenchOpen