Novak Djokovic shares massive fitness update as quest for record-breaking 25th Grand Slam gathers pace

Novak Djokovic has reached at least the French Open quarterfinals in 19 of the last 20 editions. He clinched the title in 2016, 2021 and 2023.

Published on: May 25, 2026, 10:45:54 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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Chasing a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title, Novak Djokovic dropped a huge fitness update. Djokovic began his French Open campaign with a victory on Sunday. Facing Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, Djokovic lost the first set, but managed to stage a fightback as he sealed a 5-7 7-5 6-1 6-4 victory. The Serbian is making his fourth tour-level appearance this season.

Novak Djokovic also tied French players Richard Gasquet and Antoine Gentian with a men's record 22nd Roland Garros appearance. (AP Photo/Emma Da Silva)

"The body is feeling all right for now," he said, while speaking in the post-match press conference.

Also Read: Novak Djokovic, Alexander Zverev off to winning starts at French Open but Taylor Fritz out

"Of course I have to get the game together, and hopefully that will happen as I progress."

It was also a long match as Djokovic lost the first set. "It was a good match to be part of, three hours, just what the doctor ordered, at age 39. Here we go," he said.

Djokovic also tied French players Richard Gasquet and Antoine Gentian with a men's record 22nd Roland Garros appearance. He has reached at least the quarterfinals in 19 of the last 20 editions. He clinched the title in 2016, 2021 and 2023.

The 80th-ranked Mpetshi Perricard had plenty of crowd support, and the fans erupted into chants of "Gio-vanni, Gio-vanni, Gio-vanni" when he ripped a forehand winner on his fourth break point to conclude a long rally during a tense game at 5-5 in the first set. Mpetshi Perricard then finished the set off with consecutive aces - the first of which clocked in at 223 kph (139 mph).

Djokovic said afterwards that Mpetshi Perricard, whom he played for the first time, has "one of the most tremendous serves in terms of precision and speed that I have ever faced in my career."

Djokovic couldn't convert a break point until his 10th try when he concluded the second set with a drop shot that Mpetshi Perricard couldn't get back. Then, Djokovic held his hand to his ear to taunt the pro-French crowd.

Late in the fourth set after he pulled off a delicate half-volley winner, Djokovic skipped back to the baseline in apparent glee. And when it was over, Djokovic performed a celebratory wiggle on the baseline.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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