MATCH REPORT | 2023 PARIS MASTERS: Novak DJOKOVIC emerges victorious after battling Tallon GRIEKSPOOR

Novak Djokovic came from a set down to defeat Tallon Griekspoor 4-6, 7-6(2), 6-3 and advance to the quarterfinals of the 2023 Paris Masters.

Djokovic, the World No. 1, returned to his first tournament in two months since winning the US Open. He skipped the Asian season and took nearly a two-month break before his comeback at Paris-Bercy, where he is defending the final from last year (a loss to Holger Rune).

In the first round, he easily dispatched Argentine Tomas Martin Etcheverry (30th) 6-3, 6-2. Now, he faced the challenge of Dutch player Tallon Griekspoor, who is currently at his career-best ranking as the World No. 23.

In the first set, Djokovic began with a quick break that allowed him to take a 3-0 lead in a matter of minutes. Griekspoor kept his focus and took advantage of a dip in Djokovic's form when the score was 4-2. Griekspoor won four consecutive games, including two breaks, and ultimately secured the set 6-4.

The Dutch player capitalized on Djokovic's low first-serve percentage (54%), winning 68% of first serves and 38% on second serves. On the other hand, Griekspoor had a 68% first-serve percentage, winning 71% of them, and an impressive 75% on second serves, facing only one break point throughout the set.

parisAfter losing the first set, Djokovic requested medical attention from a doctor and physiotherapist, which led to some boos from the audience. At the start of the second set, he seemed physically well and adjusted his service. His first-serve percentage increased to 74%, winning 81% of them, which matched Griekspoor's 68% first-serve percentage, where he won 85% of his first serves.

Both players saved break points early in the set and then held their serves for the rest of the set. Djokovic faced a challenging moment with two break points against him when the score was 4-4, but Griekspoor couldn't convert them.

The set went to a tie-break, where Djokovic secured the first five points, creating an insurmountable lead for Griekspoor. Djokovic won the set 7-6(2), improving his record in tie-breaks in 2023 to 27-5.

After a toilet break for Djokovic before the third set, both players held their serves in the early stages without giving their opponent break opportunities. However, in the fifth game, Djokovic capitalized on his first chance to take the lead, which proved to be decisive in the match. He eventually won the match 4-6, 7-6(2), 6-4.

In the quarterfinals, Djokovic will face the winner of the match between Daniel Altmaier (54th) and Holger Rune (6th).