Novak Djokovic, the indomitable Serbian tennis legend, has once again etched his name into the annals of tennis history, equaling a remarkable record held by Roger Federer at the 2025 French Open. With a commanding 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 victory over Austrian qualifier Filip Misolic in the third round, the 38-year-old reached the fourth round at Roland Garros for the 16th consecutive year, marking his 99th match win at the clay-court major. This milestone ties Federer’s Open Era record for achieving the round of 16 in at least two Grand Slam men’s singles events across 20 seasons, a testament to Djokovic’s enduring excellence and relentless pursuit of greatness.
Djokovic’s journey through the 2025 French Open has been a blend of grit and brilliance, as he chases a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title. Fresh off his 100th tour-level title in Geneva, where he defeated Hubert Hurkacz in a thrilling three-set final, Djokovic arrived in Paris with renewed momentum after a challenging start to the year. His first-round win over Mackenzie McDonald was a clinical 6-2, 6-3, 6-4 display, marking his 21st consecutive opening-round victory at Roland Garros. “History in this sport has given me everything in my life, it means a lot to me,” Djokovic said post-match, reflecting on the weight of his achievements. His second-round clash against France’s Corentin Moutet tested his resolve, as a blister on his left big toe required on-court treatment. Yet, Djokovic’s composure shone through, as he clinched a straight-sets win in a tense tiebreak, noting, “I ended out the match well, moving well, playing a great tiebreak. Obviously, the atmosphere was electric, especially in that third set.”
The third-round triumph over Misolic, a 23-year-old making his first third-round appearance at a major, showcased Djokovic’s ability to adapt and dominate. Despite not being at his peak, he controlled the two-hour, nine-minute match on Court Philippe-Chatrier, redirecting Misolic’s pace and stepping up on key points. “Every time I step onto this court, I’m playing for history,” Djokovic said, speaking through an interpreter. “To carry on being able to play for everyone in the stadium tonight shows how much I do love this sport. I want to give back the love and emotions that I experience when I’m playing.” His 99th Roland Garros win matches his personal best at the Australian Open, where he holds a record 10 titles, and positions him just one victory shy of a historic 100th win at the French Open, a feat only surpassed by Rafael Nadal’s 112 victories.
This milestone aligns Djokovic with Federer, whose 20-season streak of reaching the last 16 at multiple majors spanned from 2000 to 2019. Federer, who retired in 2022, set the benchmark with his graceful mastery, but Djokovic’s longevity and adaptability have now drawn level. The Serbian’s 429 Grand Slam matches played, including his recent Australian Open win over Jaime Faria, also surpassed Federer’s record of 428, making him the all-time leader in major singles matches among men and women. “I love this sport. I love competition,” Djokovic said in Melbourne, emphasizing his passion. “Whether I win or lose, I will always leave my heart out on the court. I’m just blessed to be making another record.”
Djokovic’s 2025 season has not been without hurdles. Early exits in Monte Carlo, Madrid, and Doha, coupled with a semifinal retirement against Alexander Zverev at the Australian Open due to injury, marked his worst start since 2018. His decision to part ways with coach Andy Murray after six months underscored his quest for a spark, which he found in Geneva. Now, under new guidance, he faces a daunting path at Roland Garros, with a potential fourth-round clash against Cameron Norrie, a quarterfinal against Zverev, and a possible final against defending champion Carlos Alcaraz or world No. 1 Jannik Sinner. Yet, Djokovic’s history of defying odds—evidenced by his 2024 Olympic gold on the same Paris clay—suggests he thrives in adversity.
As Djokovic eyes a fourth French Open title, his pursuit of history extends beyond Federer’s records. A 25th Grand Slam would surpass Margaret Court’s all-time mark, cementing his legacy as the sport’s greatest. “I’m glad that he played so well and he deserves another round of applause,” Djokovic said of Misolic, reflecting his sportsmanship. With the crowd’s energy fueling him and Paris’s iconic courts as his stage, Djokovic’s latest milestone is not just a nod to Federer’s legacy but a bold step toward redefining tennis immortality.
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