Novak Djokovic sweeps McDonald in straight sets under the roof, eyeing more history at the 2025 French Open.
Paris [France], May 28 – Serbian tennis legend Novak Djokovic continued his remarkable unbeaten streak in French Open first-round matches, dispatching American Mackenzie McDonald with clinical precision in the opening round on Tuesday.
Playing under the iconic Court Philippe-Chatrier roof as rain swept across Paris, the three-time French Open champion claimed a dominant 6-3, 6-3, 6-3 victory in just under two hours. Fresh from lifting his 100th tour-level title, the 38-year-old Djokovic showed no signs of fatigue, extending his record of never losing a set in a Roland Garros opener since 2010.
Reflecting on his win, Djokovic said, “I try to enjoy every moment on this very special and beautiful court. 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. They are beautiful emotions. 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.”
Djokovic’s relentless baseline hitting left McDonald with few answers. Despite managing a lone break of Djokovic’s serve in the second set, the American was unable to build momentum against the Serbian’s rock-solid defense and pinpoint precision.
The match saw the roof closed early in the second set, but the change in conditions did little to disrupt Djokovic’s rhythm. He raced through the third set, sealing the win in commanding fashion.
Djokovic is returning to Roland Garros with renewed determination after last year’s campaign ended prematurely due to a knee injury. He bounced back in spectacular style at the 2024 Olympics, clinching the gold medal at this very venue by overcoming Spanish star Carlos Alcaraz in a historic final.
“History in this sport has given me everything in my life, it means a lot to me,” Djokovic shared post-match. “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.”
As Djokovic eyes a fourth French Open title and more records to add to his legendary career, his performance in the opening round suggests he remains as hungry and formidable as ever.