Novak Djokovic of Serbia overcame physical challenges and a resilient opponent to secure his place in the French Open third round, defeating France's Corentin Moutet 6-3, 6-2, 7-6(1) on Thursday. The 38-year-old tennis icon demonstrated resilience after a blister disrupted his momentum in the third set, rallying to win a decisive tiebreak at Roland-Garros.
Djokovic dominated the first two sets but faced a stern test in the third, requiring a medical timeout. Despite Moutet's surge and a raucous home crowd, the 24-time Grand Slam champion saved a set point and closed out the match with a commanding tiebreak performance. "The atmosphere was electric," Djokovic remarked. "I stayed calm, focused on my game, and finished strong."
The victory keeps Djokovic on track for a record 25th Grand Slam title. He will next face Austria's Filip Misolic, while rising star Jannik Sinner also advanced, underscoring a dynamic shift in men's tennis as veterans and newcomers collide.
