Novak Djokovic’s pursuit of a 25th Grand Slam title came to an end in an intense third-round clash at the French Open. Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca triumphed over the 39-year-old Serb, a three-time Roland Garros victor, with scores of 4-6, 4-6, 6-3, 7-5, 7-5. The match unfolded in temperatures soaring to 33 degrees Celsius (91 Fahrenheit).
Djokovic appeared fatigued during the fifth set but continued to push through. His departure from the tournament opens up opportunities for others in the men’s draw following Jannik Sinner’s earlier exit from the competition.
“Tough one for me to lose,” Djokovic admitted. “I was barely standing on my legs toward the end of the match.”
In their first meeting, Djokovic combined his signature defensive skills with impressive winners and skillful drop shots, securing the first two sets.
He reflected on his early performance, noting, “I was playing good tennis, very good tennis. Taking everything into consideration and all the circumstances, my level was very good.” Yet, Fonseca remained persistent and leveled the match.
In the decisive game, Djokovic had a break point opportunity for 6-6, but Fonseca sealed the set by delivering three consecutive aces to become the first teenager to defeat Djokovic in a Grand Slam tournament.
Fonseca expressed his delight in facing Djokovic for the first time, stating, “I just enjoyed being on court and what a pleasure it was. It’s my first stepping on court against him.” He humorously likened his ace streak to big server John Isner and marked the occasion with a birthday wish for his mother and gratitude to Brazilian fans present.
Heading into Roland Garros, Djokovic faced uncertainties. A shoulder injury limited his clay-court preparation to a single competitive match following his Australian Open final loss to Carlos Alcaraz. Despite enduring lengthy matches in previous rounds, he felt optimistic about his chances, especially after Sinner’s departure.
However, the heat that taxed Sinner also affected Djokovic. He applied ice packs on both sides of his face during breaks, yet appeared to be in control after securing the second set with a forehand volley at the net.
Fonseca’s powerful forehand in the third set put Djokovic on the defense. In the fifth set, Djokovic made desperate efforts to regain energy against his much younger opponent. His fatigue was evident as he leaned on advertising boards, slumped in his chair with a towel draped over his head, and held his head in his hands.
After the match, Djokovic graciously acknowledged Fonseca’s achievement. “I told him that he deserved to win and he should be proud of himself. We’ve all seen today why there is hype around him,” Djokovic said. “Without a doubt he was a better player in important moments. Found incredible shots.”
Djokovic expressed uncertainty about his participation in the French Open next year, though he had also voiced similar sentiments following a previous semifinal defeat to Jannik Sinner.
More tennis coverage can be found at AP Tennis.
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