Novak Djokovic got off to a strong start in his pursuit of major number 25 at the 2026 French Open.
In round one of the clay-court major, Djokovic defeated home hope Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard.
The Serb came back from a set down against the Frenchman, fighting his way back into the contest in the night session on Court Philippe Chatrier, 5-7, 7-5, 6-1, 6-4.
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Djokovic was playing Mpetshi Perricard for the first time in his career on Sunday, and was tested against the opening assignment.
Following his victory, the 24-time Grand Slam champion took to social media to send a message to his opponent.
Novak Djokovic reacts to first Roland Garros win in social media
In a post on Instagram, Djokovic said: “Making moves. Respect to @giovanni.mpetshi. Great player, incredible service and bright future.”
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Mpetshi Perricard, still just 22 years of age, is currently ranked 83rd in the world, but has been as high as 29th.
The six-foot-seven big server has two ATP titles to his name, both of which he clinched during the 2024 season.
Mpetshi Perricard has struggled to gain any momentum this year, however, having crashed out in the early stages of every Grand Slam and ATP Masters 1000 event he has appeared at.
He has only gone as far as the quarterfinals at tour-level competitions in 2026, which he achieved in Brisbane and Auckland.
Novak Djokovic’s next opponent at the French Open
Djokovic’s next opponent at the 2026 edition of Roland Garros comes in the form of another Frenchman: Valentin Royer.
Royer, who has never faced Djokovic on the tour before, enjoyed a comfortable first-round win over Hugo Dellien, triumphing in straight sets.
The victory was just Royer’s second of the season at ATP level, with the 24-year-old tallying a win-loss record of 2-12 so far in 2026.
Should Djokovic advance past Royer, he will face either Joao Fonseca or Dino Prizmic, who beat him at the Italian Open.
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