Djokovic angry despite smooth win in his opener
Paris, May 27 (UNI) Despite kick-starting his French Open campaign with a fluent straight set win, top seed Novak Djokovic's demeanour on court suggested underlying frustrations on Tuesday.
Throughout the match against world number 98 Mackenzie Mcdonald, Djokovic exhibited signs of agitation, including gesturing towards his box and displaying visible frustration after certain points.
The reactions were notable even as he maintained control over the match, breaking McDonald's serve twice in each set. Notably, he dropped his serve once in the second set, an uncommon lapse that perhaps contributed to his visible discontent.
The match was played under the closed roof of Court Philippe-Chatrier due to inclement weather, providing windless conditions that typically favour Djokovic's precise baseline play. However, the serene environment did little to alleviate his apparent dissatisfaction.
In his post-match reflections, Djokovic acknowledged the challenges faced during the match, stating, "It doesn't feel great when you play this way on the court... just a bad day in the office, I guess, for me." He emphasised the need to build momentum as the tournament progresses, aiming to elevate his performance in subsequent rounds.
The victory comes on the heels of Djokovic's title win at the Geneva Open, marking his 100th singles title—a milestone that underscores his enduring excellence in the sport.
Yet, the absence of his long-time rivals from the "Big Four"—Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Andy Murray—has cast a reflective mood over his current campaign. "It's a bit sad that they're not here," Djokovic remarked, highlighting the emotional void left by their retirements.
Looking ahead, Djokovic is set to face French veteran Gaël Monfils in the next round. Monfils, known for his athleticism and flair, will likely have strong support from the home crowd, setting the stage for a compelling encounter. UNI BDN
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