Djokovic was in a reflective mood after his first round win.

Novak Djokovic during his on-court interview at Roland Garros (Via Imago)

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic overcame a resilient French wildcard Pierre-Hugues Herbert 6-4, 7-6 (3), 6-4 to reach the second round of Roland Garros. However, this straight-set win wasn’t without hiccups.

Speaking in his post-match interview, the Serbian assessed his opponent’s game. He believed that he was in an uncomfortable situation due to the Frenchman’s immense serving, and the second set was the key to the match.

I have to say, the night session matches are very special out here on Chatrier. The conditions are different, you have to wait quite a long time before you play, but it’s a special feeling when you step out here.

Novak Djokovic said after his victory

When it was his turn to shine on the court, Nole certainly delivered. Djokovic will now attempt to join his great rival in the list of players who have defended their French Open crowns. So far in his career, the Serbian has only defended Grand Slam titles at the Australian Open and Wimbledon.

I think that Herbert served very well. I was in a complicated situation because I couldn’t find the right position to return his serves, so it was very important to say focused. If he had won that second set, it would have been a different match—for me, for the atmosphere. It was very important for me that I won that second set.

Novak Djokovic added

Djokovic was present yesterday in the stands of the Philippe-Chatrier court to watch Alexander Zverev knock out 14-time Roland Garros champion Rafael Nadal in straight sets. The Serbian had mentioned in the pre-match press conference that he would be watching that match.

Novak Djokovic opens his Roland Garros campaign with a convincing win

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic answered some of his critics with a convincing display against unseeded Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert. The Serbian is the defending champion in this year’s clay slam, having beaten Casper Ruud in last year’s final.

Novak Djokovic after winning his first round at Roland Garros (Via Imago)
The Serb entered this tournament under a lot of scrutiny. After taking a wildcard in Geneva, many fans expected him to get back on track for his Roland Garros defense. However, questions only increased following his shocking semi-final loss in Switzerland to Tomas Machac.

Nonetheless, Grand Slam tennis is a different ball game, and Djokovic was always in the ascendancy throughout his first-round match. The 24-time Grand Slam champion had his serve broken just once and broke Herbert’s serve three times.

He also won 84% of his first-serve points, ensuring he tightened his game without giving his opponent any chance for a comeback. Djokovic next faces another unseeded player, Roberto Carballés Baena, who won his first round against Constant Lestienne in four sets.