World #1 and defending champ Novak Djokovic starts his (tough) quest for a #25 Grand Slam with a 6-4, 7-6(3), 6-4 win over multiple Grand Slam (doubles) champ Pierre Hugues Herbert. Nice match. Pierre's style is a joy to watch.
First step done: Novak Djokovic begins French Open title defence with victory over Herbert
ATPTuesday, 28 May 2024 at 23:08
World No. 1
Novak Djokovic commenced his title defence at the French Open with a win over
French wild card Pierre-Hugues Herbert (ranked No. 142) by 6-4, 7-6(3), 6-4.
This victory marks Djokovic's 93rd win at Roland Garros, setting him up for a
second-round clash with Roberto Carballes Baena.
In the
first set, Djokovic asserted his dominance, showcasing an almost flawless
serve, conceding just three points on serve. He secured the first break of the
match in the third game, which proved decisive as he clinched the set 6-4.
Djokovic's stats were impressive with 11 winners and only 2 unforced errors,
while Herbert had 12 winners but 13 unforced errors.
Djokovic
started the second set strongly, gaining an early break. However, Herbert
showed resilience, played with more precision aiming for the lines, and managed
to break back in the next game, capitalising on several unforced errors from
Djokovic.
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The errors
from Djokovic were notable in the second set, increasing his tally to 11
unforced errors and offering his opponent a couple of break opportunities.
Despite this, neither player managed another break, leading to a tie-break.
Djokovic quickly established a lead in the tie-break, securing the set 7-6(3).
Although
Djokovic excelled in crucial moments, Herbert managed to keep the match
competitive by holding his serve effectively. The Frenchman won 74% of points
on his first serve and hit three aces, maintaining his chances. In the 10th
game, Djokovic applied pressure to break Herbert's serve and, after 8 minutes,
clinched the match 6-4, 7-6(3), 6-4 in 2 hours and 33 minutes.
In the
second round, Djokovic will face Roberto Carballes Baena (ranked No. 63), who
also defeated a Frenchman, winning 6-3, 7-5, 4-6, 6-2 against Constant
Lestienne (ranked No. 91).
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