Novak Djokovic moved one step closer to Grand Slam history on Saturday night with a commanding 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 victory over Austrian qualifier Filip Misolic, securing his 99th career win at Roland Garros and a place in the fourth round of the French Open.
While 40,000 fans across the road at the Parc des Princes watched Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final, the 38-year-old Serbian delivered a masterclass on Court Philippe Chatrier. Chasing a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title, Djokovic displayed both flair and control against the 23-year-old Misolic, handling his opponent’s power with ease and showing no signs of the blisters that hampered him in the previous round.
Despite missing nine break point opportunities early in the match, Djokovic finally broke through with a stunning defensive effort that turned the tide at 4-2 in the opening set. In the second, the sixth seed saved a break point at 1-2 and earned applause for sportsmanship after helping Misolic to his feet following a slip on the clay.
Moments later, the Serb’s ruthless edge returned as he broke serve with a crisp backhand winner to take a two-set lead. As fireworks and cheers erupted from PSG fans nearby, Djokovic stayed laser-focused, breezing through the third set to complete the straight-sets win.
Having won his 100th career title in Geneva just before Roland Garros, Djokovic has yet to drop a set in Paris this year and looks primed for another deep run. He now faces Britain’s Cameron Norrie in the last 16.
“I’m just hoping to carry on. Every time I step onto this court I’m playing for history,” Djokovic said post-match.
A win over Norrie would mark his 100th victory at Roland Garros and push him past his Australian Open career win tally. It would also continue his remarkable run of reaching at least the quarter-finals in Paris every year since 2010.
