Novak Djokovic is vying to become the oldest men’s Grand Slam champion in history.
French Open 2025
Dates: May 25-June 8 Venue: Roland Garros
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Novak Djokovic advanced to the French Open semifinals, defeating third seed Alexander Zverev in a compelling match.
The 38-year-old, seeded sixth, triumphed 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4, setting up a Friday clash with world number one Jannik Sinner.
Djokovic, a three-time Roland Garros champion, dropped the opening set after being broken early. However, the Serbian star then dominated, showcasing his resilience in a grueling 41-shot exchange at a crucial juncture in the fourth set, en route to his record-extending 51st Grand Slam semifinal appearance.
“My playing style relies heavily on running, but at my age, that’s not so easy,” Djokovic commented, acknowledging the physical demands of the game at his age. He is the second-oldest man to reach the French Open semifinals.
He will face Sinner, who secured a straightforward straight-sets victory over Alexander Bublik earlier on Thursday.
The Italian remains undefeated in sets at Roland Garros after a dominant 6-1, 7-5, 6-0 win, ending Bublik’s impressive run. Sinner aims for his maiden Roland Garros title, having previously reached the semifinals, losing a thrilling five-setter to Carlos Alcaraz last year.
Either Djokovic or Sinner will face the winner of the Friday match between defending champion Alcaraz and Italian eighth seed Lorenzo Musetti.
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While age is a factor for Djokovic, his drive for Grand Slam success remains undiminished. A season of inconsistent performance by his high standards fueled questions about his stamina and motivation, further compounded by the departure of his coach, Andy Murray.
However, Djokovic consistently elevates his game during major tournaments. In Melbourne, he unexpectedly reached the semifinals, defeating Alcaraz, though a hamstring injury forced his withdrawal against Zverev.
Nevertheless, his Melbourne performance highlighted his capacity to overcome younger opponents in best-of-five matches.
“Victories against Alcaraz and Zverev prove I can still compete at the highest level,” Djokovic stated. “I thrive under pressure; this is where I focus and deliver my best.”
Zverev, at 28, was once considered among the players to succeed Djokovic, Murray, Nadal, and Federer. This defeat exemplifies his struggles against Djokovic, who converted four of eight break points.
Often criticized for passivity, Zverev remained deep behind the baseline, allowing Djokovic to dictate play with his tactical prowess and effective drop shots.
Djokovic’s unwavering focus allowed him to seize control and frustrate Zverev. A crucial point in the fourth set, showcasing Djokovic’s resilience and athleticism, proved decisive.
Djokovic ultimately secured victory after three hours and 17 minutes, concluding the match with a characteristic drop shot.
Sinner seeks his first Roland Garros title, adding to his US Open and two Australian Open wins.
Sinner’s dominant run – in just his second tournament following a three-month ban – poses a significant threat to his rivals. The 23-year-old world number one has been a force on the ATP Tour, extending his winning streak in majors to 19 matches.
His efficient 6-1, 7-5, 6-0 victory over Bublik, lasting one hour and 51 minutes, showcases his current form.
Bublik’s remarkable French Open run, including his first Grand Slam quarterfinal appearance, saw him rise back into the top 50. A trip to Las Vegas sparked a turnaround in his performance.
However, facing the world number one proved insurmountable.
“We’ve played before, so I know him well, but he’s unpredictable,” Sinner noted. “He deserves his quarterfinal spot; I focused on consistent play to counter his inconsistency.”
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