Novak Djokovic, pursuing a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam singles title, halted Cameron Norrieās impressive French Open campaign with a commanding 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 victory on Monday, securing his place in the quarter-finals.
Norrie, ranked world number 81, was making his debut in the last 16 at Roland Garros and had earlier stunned 11th seed Daniil Medvedev in the first round. However, the Briton struggled to challenge the 38-year-old Serbian star, failing to capitalize on key opportunities, including a break advantage in the second set.
āI was a little bit flat in some moments, and I think that was the difference,ā Norrie admitted post-match, adding, āI donāt see too much evolution with Novakāheās still not missing tennis balls.ā
The sixth-seeded Djokovic now sets his sights on third seed Alexander Zverev in the next round, a rematch of Januaryās Australian Open semi-final where the German prevailed after Djokovic battled a hamstring injury.