Novak Djokovic notched his 99th career French Open match win by defeating Austrian qualifier Filip Misolic 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 on Saturday night, booking his place in the round of 16 at Roland-Garros.
As 40,000 fans across the street cheered Paris Saint-Germain's 5-0 Champions League victory, Djokovic stayed dialed in on Court Philippe Chatrier. The three-time champion survived an early rally from the 23-year-old, who forced nine breakpoint opportunities before Djokovic seized a 4-2 lead in the first set.
Data snapshot: Djokovic won 78% of his first-serve points and saved 9 of 10 break points, underlining his trademark resilience. After fending off an early break in the second set, he flipped the momentum with a backhand winner to clinch set two.
Showcasing sportsmanship, Djokovic helped dust off Misolic after a tumble before returning to ruthless form, closing out the match with another decisive break to seal the third set.
Looking ahead, Djokovic will face Britain's Cameron Norrie in a last 16 clash. He has yet to drop a set in Paris and is eyeing his 10th quarterfinal appearance at the French Open since 2010.
"Every time I step onto this court, I'm playing for history," Djokovic said. The 38-year-old appears unfazed by the blisters that troubled him earlier in the tournament.
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Novak Djokovic eases into last 16 with 99th French Open win of career
cgtn.com
