Novak Djokovic remains cautious following French Open first-round victory
After a convincing first-round win against wildcard Pierre-Hugues Herbert at the French Open, Novak Djokovic, the top-ranked player in the world, maintains a cautious approach. Despite the victory, Djokovic expresses restraint in his excitement, citing a recent dip in form during this season.
Novak Djokovic had a comfortable win over wildcard Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the first round of the French Open on Tuesday. However, the world No. 1 mentioned that he is not getting too excited about the victory due to a dip in form this season.
The Serbian player, who has not won a trophy in 2024 yet, faced challenges with a stomach issue. This affected his performance as he lost to world No. 44 Tomas Machac in the Geneva Open semifinals in three sets 6-4, 0-6, 6-1 last week.
Djokovic and France's Pierre-Hugues Herbert shake hands after Djokovic wins their men's singles match on Court Philippe-Chatrier during the French Open tennis tournament. 
Djokovic commented on his performance in the Monte-Carlo, Rome, and Geneva tournaments. He mentioned that his first matches went well, but the second and third matches were more challenging. Despite his victory over Herbert with a score of 6-4 7-6 6-4, Djokovic expressed caution and stated that he did not want to get too excited.
Novak Djokovic struggled with a stomach bug as he lost in three sets to Tomas Machac at the Geneva Open.
Novak Djokovic struggled with a stomach bug as he lost in three sets to Tomas Machac at the Geneva Open.
Martial Trezzini/Keystone/AP
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Novak Djokovic is still waiting for his first title of 2024 as he faced a surprise loss at the Geneva Open. Despite struggling with illness, he remains optimistic about his performance.
"I thought it was a good performance for me, solid," Djokovic commented on his match. He acknowledged that there were areas where he could have improved, particularly on return games. He also gave credit to his opponent for serving very well and keeping him on his toes with different strategies.
Djokovic expressed, "I was fist pumping, I was focused, I was there, I was present. So I’m pleased with the way at least I behaved or had a mindset on the court. That was something that I was looking for. And where are you going to feel that way if not in grand slams?"
Even though Djokovic won in straight sets, he confessed that he had been troubled by Herbert's serve.
Djokovic praised his opponent for his excellent service and ability to change tactics during the match. Every time Djokovic would prepare for a second serve, his opponent would adjust and come in closer to the net.
He also commended his opponent for having a strong kick serve, one of the best he has faced. He described him as very talented and skilled at mixing up his shots, including his ability to come to the net and use his crafty hand skills.
The 37-year-old Serbian will now face Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena in the second round.
If Djokovic wins a fourth title on the Roland Garros clay he will take his grand slam tally to 25.
CNN’s Ben Morse contributed reporting.
Editor's P/S:
Novak Djokovic's victory over Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the first round of the French Open is a testament to his resilience and determination. Despite a dip in form this season and a stomach issue that affected his performance in the Geneva Open, Djokovic displayed remarkable focus and grit on the court. While he acknowledges areas for improvement, his unwavering belief in his abilities and his dedication to the game are evident.
Djokovic's cautious approach after the victory highlights his unwavering desire for perfection. He is not content with simply winning; he is striving for excellence and wants to dominate the tournament as he has done in the past. As he faces Roberto Carballes Baena in the second round, Djokovic will undoubtedly draw upon his experience and determination to extend his winning streak and inch closer to his 25th Grand Slam title.
