Novak Djokovic’s mastery on the clay of Roland-Garros continued unabated as the Serbian legend dispatched French hope Corentin Moutet 6-3, 6-2, 7-6(1) on Thursday, booking his place in the third round and stretching his remarkable unbeaten run against French opponents at the tournament to 12 matches. In a match that combined moments of high drama, crowd fervor, and flashes of brilliance from both players, Djokovic once again demonstrated why he remains one of the sport’s most formidable competitors, even at age 38. See also: Alexei Popyrin Shocks Novak Djokovic at the 2024 US Open
Djokovic’s Parisian Dominance: A Streak Extended
With this straight-sets victory, Djokovic improved his record against Frenchmen at Roland-Garros to a staggering 12-0, and his overall mark against French players at Grand Slams to 44-2. The win also marked his 98th career match victory at Roland-Garros, putting him on the verge of equaling his best win tally at a single major and inching closer to the 100-win milestone at the Parisian Slam.
The three-time Roland-Garros champion entered the match fresh off his 100th career singles title in Geneva, a triumph that appeared to have lifted a weight from his shoulders and restored his confidence after a season of ups and downs. The Serbian’s focus was evident from the outset as he eyed a deep run in his 21st main-draw appearance at the French Open.
First Two Sets: Djokovic in Command
Facing Corentin Moutet for the third time, Djokovic was well aware of the Frenchman’s flair, speed, and ability to rattle opponents—especially with the Suzanne-Lenglen crowd in full voice behind their local favorite. Moutet, ranked 73rd in the world, had never taken a set off Djokovic and was seeking to become the first Frenchman to eliminate him before the Roland-Garros quarterfinals since 2009.
The opening set saw Moutet break Djokovic early, energizing the crowd and giving the underdog a spring in his step. But the Serb quickly found his rhythm, reeling off games with clinical precision and wrapping up the first set 6-3 in just 43 minutes. Djokovic’s relentless pressure on return and his ability to neutralize Moutet’s variety set the tone.
The second set was more of the same, though Moutet showed flashes of his trademark magic—including a memorable tweener half-volley winner to save a set point, which even drew a smile from Djokovic. Still, the world No. 6 was unflappable, breaking serve twice and moving ahead 6-2 to take a two-set lead.
Third Set: Moutet’s Resistance and Parisian Drama
The third set provided the most tension and entertainment. Moutet, buoyed by the partisan crowd, broke Djokovic for a 4-2 lead and looked poised to force a fourth set. Djokovic, however, responded with the composure and mental steel that have defined his career, breaking back and leveling at 5-5.
Serving at 5-6, Djokovic faced a set point but found a clutch serve and a series of precise shots to escape danger. The set went to a tiebreak, where Djokovic’s experience shone through—he raced out to a commanding lead and closed it out 7-1, silencing the crowd and sealing victory after three hours and five minutes on court.
Atmosphere and Aftermath: Electric Crowd, Composed Champion
The Suzanne-Lenglen Court was electric throughout, with the French crowd willing Moutet to an upset and creating a cauldron-like atmosphere. Djokovic acknowledged the intensity, admitting afterward, “It was, yeah, not much fun for me. Of course, it’s never easy, but I try to stay calm and do what I need to do, and I think I have done that in a really good wayâ€.
He also praised Moutet’s creativity and the challenge of facing a home favorite: “Corentin is a player who has great speed, it was a great battle, especially the third set. I saved a set point… At that moment, anything is possible. Mentally, I had to stay concentrated and prepared for a match like thatâ€.
Djokovic’s Quest for History
With this win, Djokovic’s Roland-Garros record stands at 98-16, and he is now just two wins away from joining the exclusive club of players with 100 victories at a single Grand Slam. He remains in the hunt for a record 25th major title, and with his current form and renewed confidence, few would bet against him making another deep run in Paris.
His next challenge will be against Austrian qualifier Filip Misolic in the third round, with a potential blockbuster quarterfinal looming against last year’s finalist Alexander Zverev.
Moutet’s Gallant Effort
For Corentin Moutet, the defeat was another reminder of the gulf between the game’s elite and those striving to break through. Yet, his performance—especially in the third set—earned him a standing ovation from the home crowd and respect from Djokovic himself. Moutet’s ability to entertain and challenge a legend on one of tennis’s grandest stages bodes well for his future on the tour.
Conclusion: Djokovic’s Parisian March Continues
Novak Djokovic’s 6-3, 6-2, 7-6(1) victory over Corentin Moutet was a showcase of experience, resilience, and championship mentality. As the Serbian star advances to the third round, his pursuit of more history at Roland-Garros remains one of the tournament’s central storylines. For the Parisian faithful, it was a night of high drama and world-class tennis—a reminder of why Djokovic’s legacy continues to grow on the red clay of Paris.
