Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, continues to captivate the tennis world as he navigates the 2025 French Open with his trademark resilience and wit. Fresh off a hard-fought second-round victory over Filip Misolic at Roland Garros, the Serbian superstar offered a glimpse into his physical struggles and a playful nod to the Champions League final. With Paris buzzing ahead of Paris Saint-Germain’s clash against Inter Milan in Munich, Djokovic made a cheeky scheduling request to tournament organizers, hoping to catch the football action. “It’s going to be PSG that I will support. I will definitely watch it if I’m not playing [the] night session,” he said with a smile, adding, “Yeah, that will be nice. FYI, Roland Garros schedule…” His lighthearted comment underscored his ability to balance intense competition with moments of levity, even as he battles an ongoing injury.
Djokovic’s journey at this year’s French Open has been anything but straightforward. The 38-year-old, who celebrated his birthday just days before the tournament, faced a stern test against Misolic, ultimately prevailing in a match that tested his endurance. His first-round win over Corentin Moutet was equally challenging, marked by what he described as an “unpleasant process” dealing with a fitness issue. “I’m glad I was able to come through that one,” he admitted, reflecting on the physical toll of the clay-court grind. Despite these hurdles, Djokovic remains a formidable force, with his sights set on a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title. His ability to push through discomfort is a testament to his mental fortitude, honed over a career that includes a triple Career Golden Slam and two Career Golden Masters.
The Serbian’s scheduling quip about the Champions League final, set for Saturday, highlights his knack for engaging with fans beyond the court. As one of tennis’ all-time greats, Djokovic is no stranger to the spotlight, often commanding the main stage at Court Philippe-Chatrier. However, his match against Moutet took place on Court Suzanne Lenglen, a departure from his usual prime-time billing. This shift didn’t dampen his focus, though, as he continues to fine-tune his game on the demanding clay surface. “I had to work for it, that’s for sure,” he said after his recent win in Geneva, where he claimed his 100th career title by outlasting Hubert Hurkacz in a thrilling 5-7, 7-6, 7-6 comeback. That victory, his first on clay this season, signaled a return to form after a lackluster start to 2025, marred by just two clay-court matches prior to Roland Garros.
Djokovic’s physical challenges are compounded by a season of transition. After parting ways with coach Andy Murray, he has brought on long-time friend and former doubles partner Dusan Vemic to guide him through Geneva and the French Open. “I’m still finding my rhythm,” he admitted, acknowledging the difficulty of competing at 38 against a new generation of hungry players like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. Yet, Djokovic thrives under pressure, as he revealed in a recent interview: “The young guys who are very hungry and very inspired to play their best tennis against me is an additional motivation. I think they kind of awaken a beast in me.” This mindset, coupled with his meticulous attention to opponents’ habits—down to how they drink water or communicate with their team—gives him an edge, even as his body battles the wear and tear of a 20-year career.
As Djokovic progresses in Paris, the tennis world watches closely. His ability to overcome physical setbacks, like the shoulder issue that flared up during his US Open default in 2020, and mental challenges, such as crowd hostility at Wimbledon, showcases his resilience. “I know all the tricks,” he once declared after perceiving boos during a 2024 Wimbledon match, a reminder of his ability to channel adversity into fuel. With the French Open draw promising tough tests—potentially against top seeds like Sinner or Stefanos Tsitsipas—Djokovic’s experience and flexibility remain his greatest assets. His playful Champions League hint may have been a moment of humor, but it underscores a deeper truth: even amidst an “unpleasant process,” Djokovic’s focus and competitive fire make him a perennial contender, ready to seize every opportunity on and off the court.
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