Novak Djokovic equals Roger Federer’s Open Era Grand Slam record at Roland Garros

Third seed Novak Djokovic continued his quest for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title at Roland-Garros, advancing to the third round with a hard-fought 6-3, 6-2, 6-7(7-9), 6-3 victory over France’s Valentin Royer on Court Philippe-Chatrier on Wednesday (May 27).

French Open: Update

Djokovic also reached the third round at Roland-Garros for a remarkable 21st straight time with the win, tying Roger Federer’s Open Era record for most consecutive third-round appearances at a single Grand Slam. It’s another milestone in a career defined by longevity, consistency and dominance at the highest level.

Djokovic appeared on the course for a routine Straight sets wins in the Paris sun, but world No. 74 Royer produced a spirited match to extend the contest. The Frenchman upped the ante in the third set, forcing a tiebreak and even saving a match point before finishing off a thrilling shootout 9-7 to send the match into a fourth set, sending the Philippe-Chatrier crowd into overdrive.

What looked like a controlled evening for the Serb quickly turned into a test of patience and composure. Royer’s tenacity kept him alive in crucial moments, backing down and refusing to buckle even under pressure. Djokovic was forced to reset himself mentally heading into the fourth set.

Despite the setback, Djokovic regained control in the fourth. He continued to find sharp angles and accurate serves under pressure, eventually sealing the match after saving further resistance from the Frenchman. A well-timed ace helped him to a third match point before he eventually closed out the encounter and restored order after a brief scare.

MARATHON ELSEWHERE

Earlier in the day, another marathon took place on Court 6 in a dramatic deciding tiebreak between 26th seed Jakub Menko and Argentina’s Mariano Navon. Menk, who was dealing with severe cramps during the shootout, somehow held on after converting his seventh match point to win 6-3, 2-6, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (13-11). The 20-year-old collapsed on the clay after sealing victory in the 4hr 41min marathon played in a sweltering 33C, with Navone walking over to shake hands while Menk remained on the ground.

While Djokovic’s milestone grabbed the headlines, the day at Roland-Garros once again highlighted the physical and mental demands of Grand Slam tennis, where endurance and composure often decide the best differences.

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Published on:

27 May 2026 23:30 IST