Novak Djokovic, the former world number one, kicked off his pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam singles title with a commanding 6-3, 6-3, 6-3 victory over American Mackenzie McDonald at Roland Garros on Tuesday. The 38-year-old Serbian star, fresh off his 100th ATP singles title in Geneva last week, showcased his resurgent form in a match that lasted just under two hours.
Djokovic, now unbeaten in 21 first-round matches at the French Open, arrived in Paris on the back of a challenging clay-court season, having suffered early exits in Monte Carlo and Madrid. However, his Geneva triumph—his first title since completing the career ‘Golden Slam’ at the Paris Olympics last summer—has reignited his confidence. The win over McDonald marked his fifth consecutive victory, following a rare run of three straight losses earlier this year.
Reflecting on his decision to compete in Geneva, Djokovic said, “It was a good move, to be honest, because I was struggling a bit with confidence, doubting my game. Winning a title there has me feeling different coming into Roland Garros. Let’s see how far I can go.”
The sixth seed, who recently parted ways with coach and former rival Andy Murray after a six-month partnership, now turns his attention to France’s Corentin Moutet, who advanced with a straight-sets win over Clement Tabur.