Alcaraz stands as the favorite after clinching two hard-court championships, claiming the top spot and entering Roland Garros with momentum from recent titles in Barcelona and Madrid. Djokovic spoke at a press conference before his Roland Garros debut, hoping the scales might eventually tip in his favor as the French Open kicks off.
The Serbian star, who claimed Grand Slam titles in 2016 and 2021, approached Paris with the plan to avoid added pressure as he pursues a landmark 23rd major. He emphasized that the goal requires staying focused on the work that keeps him competitive. Turning 36 on May 22, Djokovic made clear his resolve to keep competing at the highest level and chase more glory on clay.
For the first time since his 2005 breakthrough, Djokovic will head into Roland Garros without facing Rafael Nadal or Roger Federer on site. Nadal has stepped back due to injury, and Federer has retired, reshaping the dynamic of a tournament where the big three once defined much of the era.
When Nadal announced his impending retirement next year, Djokovic said he was taken aback. The moment underscored how players will eventually pass the torch, and Djokovic admitted that Nadal’s words touched him deeply, serving as motivation to push harder in the race to win more majors.
the loneliness of a veteran
Djokovic, who had been No. 1 for extended periods, also noted that his path at Roland Garros might feel solitary without Nadal. He admitted that beating Nadal is exceptionally challenging on any surface, and Paris has proven especially tough for him in the past.
Even as Djokovic looks ahead, he acknowledges that he will not be facing Nadal or Federer this time around. The Serbian stands as a single champion among a changing field, with emerging talents across the draw eager to make their mark in the wake of the so-called Big Three era. Players such as Alcaraz, Rune, Tsitsipas, Sinner, and Ruud are seen as major threats, while Medvedev has climbed to No. 2 with a recent Roma title.
extra motivation
For the first time since 2012, Djokovic arrives in Paris without a clay-court title this season, having recorded five wins in eight matches on the dirt. He noted that his clay-season results have been uneven, yet Grand Slams still ignite a special spark. He described Paris as a gift in his current stage and said he would seize the opportunity and give his best effort.
As the draw unfolded, Djokovic found himself in a potential semifinal clash with Alcaraz, though he avoided speculating about that matchup. On Monday, his debut would be against an American challenger, Alexander Kovacevic, ranked around 114 in the world.
Alcaraz rival Cobolli
Alcaraz’s opener would be against Italian Flavio Cobolli, a 21-year-old who hails from Murcia and sits far down the world rankings. Cobolli has been a pro since 2020 and captured his first title in Zagreb last year.
The Murcia native took to the famous Suzanne Lenglen court for practice on a day when Roland Garros drew families and fans, while Alcaraz, currently ranked No. 1, signed autographs for more than ten minutes after Djokovic’s session. The day was dedicated to junior fans and the atmosphere was electric around Philippe Chatrier.
Homage to Yannick Noah
This year’s proceedings honored Yannick Noah, the last French champion to lift the Paris title in 1983. The veteran French player helped raise funds for Le Mur, a foundation supporting youth in need, and performed with his band at the Philippe Chatrier center, creating a memorable connection between sport and charity.