Serbian tennis legend Novak Djokovic advanced to the third round of the French Open after a commanding straight-sets victory over Frenchman Corentin Moutet in Paris on Thursday.
According to the ATP’s official website, Djokovic, who is chasing a record 25th Grand Slam title, defeated Moutet 6-3, 6-2, 7-6(1). Despite moments of brilliance from Moutet—who thrilled the home crowd with some audacious drop shots—Djokovic’s composure and experience ultimately proved too strong.
The match, which lasted just over three hours, showcased the Serbian’s return to form following early exits in Monte Carlo and Madrid in April. He recently clinched his 100th ATP Tour-level title after a victory over Hubert Hurkacz at the Geneva Open.
Djokovic, currently ranked world number six, had earlier brushed aside Mackenzie McDonald in his first-round match in Paris.
“Mentally I had to stay concentrated and prepared for a match like that. Corentin is a player who has great speed, it was a great battle, especially the third set. I saved a set point… At that moment, anything is possible. I found a shot to stay in the set, a good service. I think in general I played well, I managed to stay calm on court, which was not easy at times,” Djokovic said after the match.
Meanwhile, world number one Jannik Sinner also reached the third round, defeating veteran Frenchman Richard Gasquet in straight sets. In what was Gasquet’s 22nd and final French Open appearance, the 38-year-old bowed out with a 6-3, 6-0, 6-4 defeat.
The match lasted one hour and 58 minutes, with Sinner extending his Grand Slam winning streak to 16 matches, becoming the first man born in 1990 or later to achieve the feat.