Novak Djokovic began his 2025 Roland Garros campaign in familiar fashion on Tuesday, dominating American Mackenzie McDonald 6-3, 6-3, 6-3 in a composed and authoritative first-round performance on Court Philippe-Chatrier. The win followed just three days after Djokovic's record-equalling 100th tour-level title at the Geneva Open.
Meeting McDonald for the first time in his ATP Tour career, Djokovic had complete control for their near-two-hour struggle. There was some inconsistency introduced by early windy conditions, but the roof closed during the middle of the second set as rain started falling. By then, the Serbian star had already asserted himself, securing six of seven games after the initial set was tied 2-2.
By this victory, Djokovic took his perfect record in Roland Garros first rounds to 20-0. Amazingly, he has not lost a set in a first-round match at the clay major since 2010, when he beat Evgeny Korolev in four sets.
“I try to enjoy every moment on this very special and beautiful court,” Djokovic shared in French during 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. [They are] beautiful emotions.”
McDonald resisted, and he won a break to catch up in the second set, but Djokovic broke back and wrapped up the set. In accordance with ATP Stats, the 24 Grand Slam champion converted five of nine break points and continued to create pressure from the back of the court, successfully nullifying McDonald's efforts to turn it around.
Standing at No. 6 in the ATP rankings currently, Djokovic also made it to the quarterfinals at Roland Garros in 2024 before a knee injury led to withdrawal. He then returned in a successful manner by claiming Olympic gold on the very same surface.
"History in this sport has given me everything in my life, it means a lot to me.". I always attempt to make history where I am able… In every tournament I compete in, every practice, every game, and particularly in the largest tournaments in the world. It is possible to make further history, and that is one of the largest motivations I have for events, for ongoing work and improving myself," the Serbian explained.
Djokovic will then face either qualifier Clement Tabur or Corentin Moutet in the second round.
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