Novak Djokovic Draws Level With Roger Federer’s Open Era Grand Slam Record at Roland Garros

Novak Djokovic continued his pursuit of a historic 25th Grand Slam title with a hard-fought four-set victory over France’s Valentin Royer to reach the third round of Roland-Garros on Wednesday, May 27.

The Serbian third seed defeated Royer 6-3, 6-2, 6-7(7-9), 6-3 on Court Philippe-Chatrier, but not before facing a spirited fightback from the Frenchman in front of a passionate home crowd.

The win also saw Djokovic equal Roger Federer’s Open Era record for most consecutive third-round appearances at a single Grand Slam event. Djokovic has now reached the Roland-Garros third round for a remarkable 21st straight year, adding another landmark achievement to his legendary career.

Djokovic appeared firmly in control after dominating the opening two sets with precise serving and aggressive baseline play. However, world No. 74 Royer refused to fade away, raising his intensity in the third set and forcing a dramatic tiebreak.

The Frenchman saved a match point before edging the breaker 9-7, drawing huge cheers from the Philippe-Chatrier crowd and briefly shifting the momentum of the contest.

Royer’s resilience forced Djokovic into a more physical and mentally demanding battle than expected, with the Serbian having to reset quickly after missing the opportunity to finish the match in straight sets.

But the 24-time Grand Slam champion responded with his trademark composure in the fourth set. Djokovic tightened control during key moments, continued to pressure Royer with sharp angles and deep returns, and eventually sealed victory after earning another match point with a crucial ace.

Elsewhere at Roland-Garros, another memorable battle unfolded on Court 6 as 26th seed Jakub Mensik survived an epic five-set encounter against Argentina’s Mariano Navone.

The Czech teenager battled through severe cramps to secure a dramatic 6-3, 2-6, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6(13-11) win after converting his seventh match point in a gruelling contest lasting four hours and 41 minutes in sweltering 33°C heat.

Mensik collapsed onto the clay after finally sealing victory, highlighting once again the extreme physical and mental demands of Grand Slam tennis.