Home favorite Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard will open his Roland Garros campaign against Novak Djokovic in one of the draw’s most eye-catching first-round matches. The clash brings together the Frenchman’s booming serve and the Serbian’s renowned returning, with the night session scheduled on Court Philippe-Chatrier.
Match Preview: Mpetshi Perricard vs. Novak Djokovic
At 22, Mpetshi Perricard is competing at his home major for the fourth time. Djokovic, a three-time champion in Paris and winner of 24 Grand Slam titles, is making his 22nd appearance at the tournament and owns a 101-17 record there. This will be their first tour-level meeting, which adds an exciting layer to this highly anticipated matchup.
Mpetshi Perricard enters the event ranked No. 80 in the PIF ATP Rankings and is targeting the biggest victory of his career by opponent ranking. He set a career high of No. 29 last February, lifted two ATP Tour trophies in 2024 in Lyon and Basel, and reached the fourth round at Wimbledon that same season. His best result at Roland Garros is the second round in 2025; matching or bettering that mark will require a win over Djokovic, who is playing just his fourth tour-level event of the year.
The Lyon native recently strengthened his team, adding former world No. 4 Greg Rusedski to work alongside coach Philippe Dehaes. This addition aims to enhance Mpetshi Perricard’s performance as he faces one of the toughest opponents in tennis history.
After dealing with a right wrist issue early in the clay swing, Mpetshi Perricard says he is fully fit and ready for the season’s second major. He views the matchup as a valuable test that can elevate his game, whatever the outcome. This match not only represents a significant challenge but also an opportunity for the young Frenchman to showcase his skills on one of the biggest stages in tennis.