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Wind or no wind, Nole prevails: Novak Djokovic continues perfect first-round record at Roland Garros
Susan Mullane-Imagn Images

Novak Djokovic had no trouble maintaining his perfect record in Round 1 of Roland Garros, easily defeating Mackenzie McDonald 6-3, 6-3, 6-3. The Serb controlled the match practically from start to finish, and the biggest problem for the 24-time Grand Slam champion was none other than the wind.

Indeed, the first set saw some interruptions and discussions about the weather in Paris. Djokovic complained about the wind and asked for the roof to be closed from the first set, even receiving a warning after stopping his service game to invite the umpire to call the supervisor to make a decision about the strong wind.

Nonetheless, the roof eventually closed a few minutes later, though it ended up being merely anecdotal in a straightforward victory for "Nole." The three-time French Open champion (2016, 2021, 2023) had a 66% first serve percentage, winning 81% of those points and 71% of his second serves, maintaining the consistency he had already shown in Geneva last week when he won his 100th title.

"I try to enjoy every moment on this very special and beautiful court," said Djokovic in French in his on-court interview. "I feel good, clearly, even more here because I’m reliving the memories of last year’s Olympics, the last time I played on this court. Beautiful emotions.”

During the match, Djokovic hit a total of 32 winners against his opponent's 14, while his unforced errors totaled 20, significantly fewer than McDonald's 28. In terms of breaks, "Nole" was efficient when he had opportunities, converting five breaks on nine chances, while McDonald only capitalized on 1/5 break points. “It was a solid match. I know that he can play to a better standard than today, but I am very happy with what I produced,” declared the world No. 6.

Furthermore, Djokovic reflected on achieving his 100th title in Geneva last week, adding another major milestone to his illustrious career, where he seems to never tire of breaking records and setting new marks. “History in this sport has given me everything in my life, it means a lot to me,” he said.

“I always try to make history where I can… In all the tournaments I play, all the practices, all the matches, and especially during the biggest tournaments in the world. There is an opportunity to make more history, and that is one of the biggest motivations I have for competitions, for continuing to work and better myself.”

Match Statistics McDonald vs. Djokovic


Other

Return

Service
McDonald VS Djokovic
6 Aces 7
3 Double Faults 1
66% (52/79) 1st Service Percentage 68% (48/71)
60% (31/52) 1st Service Points Won 81% (39/48)
48% (13/27) 2nd Service Points Won 71% (17/24)
44% (4/9) Break Points Saved 80% (4/5)
62% (8/13) Service Games 93% (13/14)
19% (9/48) 1st Return Points Won 40% (21/52)
29% (7/24) 2nd Return Points Won 52% (14/27)
- Break Points Saved -
1h 58m Match Duration 1h 58m

This article first appeared on TennisUpToDate.com and was syndicated with permission.

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