Novak Djokovic advanced smoothly into his 19th Roland Garros quarter-final on Monday, setting a new record for the most quarter-final appearances at a single Grand Slam event. The three-time French Open champion defeated Britain’s Cameron Norrie in straight sets, 6-2, 6-3, 6-2, on Court Philippe Chatrier.
After claiming his 100th win at the French Open, the 38-year-old Djokovic said, “I feel good. I know I can play better. But 12 sets played, 12 sets won, it’s been solid so far.” He expressed his desire to keep building on his success: “It’s great, but victory number 101 would be better. I’m very honoured… But I need to continue now.”
Djokovic is set to face third seed Alexander Zverev in the quarter-finals on Wednesday, reigniting a long-standing rivalry. Djokovic holds an 8-5 head-to-head advantage over Zverev, although their last meeting at the Australian Open semi-finals ended with Zverev retiring due to injury.
“He’s 10 years younger. He calls himself a veteran of the game. What should I call myself, then?” Djokovic joked about his younger opponent.
Norrie, ranked 81st and a former top-10 player, has now lost all six matches against Djokovic.
Despite a “complicated” return to his hotel following Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League victory celebrations, Djokovic showed no signs of fatigue. He described the chaotic scene outside the hotel, where security advised him and his team to stay put due to gas bombs and disturbances, but they eventually made it back safely.
On court, Djokovic dominated Norrie from the outset, breaking serve three times in the first set. The second set proved more competitive, with Djokovic saving a crucial break point to maintain momentum. In the third set, Norrie struggled to resist, and Djokovic sealed the win on his first match point.
Djokovic, aiming to extend his Grand Slam title count to 25, continues to demonstrate his enduring prowess at Roland Garros with this record-breaking quarter-final berth.
