Full Breakdown
Novak Djokovic Targets Record 25th Grand Slam Title on French Open Opening Day
5/24/2026, 12:33:38 PM
Djokovic Opens 2026 French Open with Record Quest
Serbian Novak Djokovic, the third seed, will begin the 2026 French Open on Sunday, May 24, in a night-session first-round match on Court Philippe-Chatrier against French qualifier Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard. A win would give the 39-year-old a chance to claim a record-breaking 25th major title.
Recent Grand Slam Context
Djokovic’s last major win was the 2023 US Open. Since then, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz have dominated the majors, with Alcaraz the 2025 French Open champion but absent this year due to injury.
Key Players and Statistics
- Novak Djokovic – 24 Grand Slam titles (tied all-time), four French Open crowns, age 39.
- Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard – French qualifier with a big serve, home-court support.
- Alexander Zverev – Second seed, opening day opponent of Benjamin Bonzi.
- Carlos Alcaraz – 2025 French Open champion, absent this year due to injury.
Official Statements
Djokovic said his preparation involved “a lot of hours spent on the court” to ready his body. He stressed Grand Slams are his top priority and expressed eagerness to compete, while noting uncertainty about his condition for the tournament.
Criticism & Concerns
Djokovic’s limited clay-court play and a tough opening draw against a strong server with home-court backing have been highlighted as factors that could affect his stamina.
Significance
A 25th major would make Djokovic the sole holder of the most Grand Slam titles in tennis history, surpassing all predecessors and cementing his legacy amid a shift toward younger champions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It’s been a lot of hours spent on the court and trying to perfect the game and the body and enable myself physically and game-wise to be ready for best of five (sets),” — Novak Djokovic, Player
- “I don’t know whether that’s going to be the case for the entire tournament, however long that tournament will be for me.” — Novak Djokovic, Player
- “But Grand Slams have been, and I have said this many times, always the priority list, particularly in the last couple of years... So I can’t wait to get on a court and start competing.” — Novak Djokovic, Player
- “Because obviously the crowd is gonna support her as much as they can, and that’s totally okay.” — Mirra Andreeva, Player
Upcoming Schedule
Djokovic’s first-round match is on May 24. A win would advance him to the second round, where he could meet another seeded player. The men’s second round starts May 26, with semifinals in early June. Women’s opening day features Mirra Andreeva versus Fiona Ferro and Belinda Bencic versus Sinja Kraus on Philippe-Chatrier.
