Wind or no wind, Nole prevails: Novak Djokovic continues perfect first-round record at Roland Garros
ATP
Novak Djokovic had no trouble maintaining his perfect record in Round 1 of Roland Garros, easily defeating Mackenzie McDonald 6-3, 6-3, 6-3. The Serb controlled the match practically from start to finish, and the biggest problem for the 24-time Grand Slam champion was none other than the wind.
Indeed, the first set saw some interruptions and discussions about the weather in Paris. Djokovic complained about the wind and asked for the roof to be closed from the first set, even receiving a warning after stopping his service game to invite the umpire to call the supervisor to make a decision about the strong wind.
Rain (wind) getting into Novak's eyes while waiting to receive.
— C Kristjánsdóttir ●🐊 (@CristinaNcl) May 27, 2025
T'ment referee will come out.
"This is just a stall tactic from Djokovic"
says a man with no tennis career (on TNT)
Mary Jo Fernandez: "I don't blame Novak, the rain is def coming down harder, lines get slippery..." pic.twitter.com/GlS8scct1Z
Nonetheless, the roof eventually closed a few minutes later, though it ended up being merely anecdotal in a straightforward victory for "Nole." The three-time French Open champion (2016, 2021, 2023) had a 66% first serve percentage, winning 81% of those points and 71% of his second serves, maintaining the consistency he had already shown in Geneva last week when he won his 100th title.
"I try to enjoy every moment on this very special and beautiful court," said Djokovic in French in his on-court interview. "I feel good, clearly, even more here because I’m reliving the memories of last year’s Olympics, the last time I played on this court. Beautiful emotions.”
During the match, Djokovic hit a total of 32 winners against his opponent's 14, while his unforced errors totaled 20, significantly fewer than McDonald's 28. In terms of breaks, "Nole" was efficient when he had opportunities, converting five breaks on nine chances, while McDonald only capitalized on 1/5 break points. “It was a solid match. I know that he can play to a better standard than today, but I am very happy with what I produced,” declared the world No. 6.
Furthermore, Djokovic reflected on achieving his 100th title in Geneva last week, adding another major milestone to his illustrious career, where he seems to never tire of breaking records and setting new marks. “History in this sport has given me everything in my life, it means a lot to me,” he said.
“I always try to make history where I can… In all the tournaments I play, all the practices, all the matches, and especially during the biggest tournaments in the world. There is an opportunity to make more history, and that is one of the biggest motivations I have for competitions, for continuing to work and better myself.”
Match Statistics McDonald vs. Djokovic
| McDonald | VS | Djokovic |
|---|---|---|
| Service | ||
| 6 | Aces | 7 |
| 3 | Double Faults | 1 |
| 66% (52/79) | 1st Service Percentage | 68% (48/71) |
| 60% (31/52) | 1st Service Points Won | 81% (39/48) |
| 48% (13/27) | 2nd Service Points Won | 71% (17/24) |
| 44% (4/9) | Break Points Saved | 80% (4/5) |
| 62% (8/13) | Service Games | 93% (13/14) |
| Return | ||
| 19% (9/48) | 1st Return Points Won | 40% (21/52) |
| 29% (7/24) | 2nd Return Points Won | 52% (14/27) |
| - | Break Points Saved | - |
| Other | ||
| 1h 58m | Match Duration | 1h 58m |
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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