Novak Djokovic marked a historic milestone on Monday at Roland-Garros, notching his 100th career French Open win with a dominant 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 victory over Britain’s Cameron Norrie. Only Rafael Nadal, with a staggering 112 wins, has surpassed him at the clay-court major.
The 38-year-old Serbian has yet to drop a set through the first four rounds, cruising into the quarterfinals while maintaining a flawless 12-0 set record this season. With three of his 24 Grand Slam titles already on the red clay of Paris, Djokovic is proving his continued prowess on the surface.
"I feel good. Every day, I have more expectations about my game, and with 12 sets played, 12 sets won, everything is solid and positive," Djokovic said after the match, underscoring his confidence as he eyes a 25th major trophy.
Djokovic’s form in 2024 saw early ups and downs, including two three-match losing streaks, but he rediscovered his rhythm by claiming his 100th career title at the Geneva Open just ahead of the French Open, where he also defeated Norrie en route to that trophy.
Norrie lauded Djokovic’s performance, noting, "He was solid today, and he didn’t give me anything. Defending well, serving well, returning well, and very sharp." The British No. 1 struggled to break through Djokovic’s relentless baseline game.
Next up is a blockbuster quarterfinal clash against third-seeded Alexander Zverev. The German advanced when Tallon Griekspoor retired in the second set due to an abdominal strain.
"He definitely knows how to play tennis. He definitely knows what it means to be on the big stage and to play big matches," Zverev said of Djokovic, acknowledging the challenge ahead.
With Monday’s win, Djokovic improved his French Open record to 100-16, closing the gap on Nadal’s legendary 112-4 mark at Roland-Garros.
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Djokovic earns his 100th career French Open win after hammering Norrie
cgtn.com
