The French Open is ongoing. - Djokovic Avoids Elimination in Round of 16
Novak Djokovic can't seemingly avoid theatrics: Following his late-night third-round victory, the Serbian tennis pro officially advanced to the quarterfinals at the French Open.
Complicating matters, Djokovic dealt with a knee injury and appeared dissatisfied with himself and the world. Once again, he created a nail-biting five-set encounter, prevailing 6-1, 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3 against Argentine underdog Francisco Cerundolo.
With his 370th Grand Slam win, Djokovic surpassed Swiss tennis legend Roger Federer in this category. He also broke the record for quarterfinal appearances at the four major tournaments, previously shared with Federer (58). Having reached the round of 16 for the 15th consecutive time at Roland Garros, the 24-time Grand Slam champion didn't impress against Cerundolo. His physical state raises concerns.
Initially, Djokovic appeared relatively recovered from his third-round match against Italian Lorenzo Musetti, which ended at around 3 am after an exhausting four-and-a-half hours. However, during the second set, the Grand Slam titleholder requested a medical timeout to address a right knee issue. He later shared this news with the umpire during a talking point regarding the court's sand: "I've twisted my knee. I've been sliding and slipping the entire time."
Djokovic also argued with the Court Philippe Chatrier crowd, who had been too vocal during a ball exchange. Eventually, Cerundolo clinched a break point after 13 attempts, winning the second set. Djokovic's former coach, Boris Becker, anticipated more outbursts from Djokovic after the third-round match.
Djokovic's demeanor signaled his struggle. He moved slowly or stiffly after ball exchanges. Defeating the third set, he displayed a lackluster expression on the bench, his injured leg resting. In the fourth set, however, he revealed renewed determination, saving himself with a burst of energy in the final set. Here, his mental fortitude proved indomitable.
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