Djokovic has been stuck on 24 majors since the 2023 US Open but may not get a better chance to add to that haul with favourites Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz both out of the race. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

With Jannik Sinner’s shock French Open exit blowing the men’s draw wide open, Novak Djokovic will look to pounce on the opportunity in his pursuit of a record 25th Grand Slam title.

Djokovic has been stuck on 24 majors since the 2023 US Open but may not get a better chance to add to that haul with Sinner out and Carlos Alcaraz absent in Paris.

Standing in his way on Friday in the third round is Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca, the highly-rated 19-year-old who is itching to make his Grand Slam breakthrough.

“Fonseca has been praised so much in the last couple of years,” said Djokovic, who made his Roland Garros debut in 2005, a year before Fonseca was born.

“I think his potential and quality as a tennis player is obvious, no doubt about it. He’s got big Brazilian support anywhere he goes. I think he’s a big-stage player. He really loves the occasion.”

The 39-year-old Djokovic has been steady but not spectacular in his opening two rounds, dropping a set in both matches, as he launches his latest assault on a fourth French Open crown.

Fonseca, who came from two sets behind to overcome Croatian youngster Dino Prizmic in round two, is eager the make the most of his eagerly-awaited clash with Djokovic.

“I always talk to my coach, like, I want to be in Novak’s draw, because I know... it’s not going to last too much (longer),” said Fonseca, aiming to reach the fourth round of a major for the first time.

“I just want to have this experience in my life. I think I’m just going to enjoy it. I mean, being in Roland Garros, third round, for me it’s just a dream.

“I’m going to enjoy every moment playing against an idol, the GOAT of the sport. He inspired me. He inspired the next generation and the generation before.”

Published on May 29, 2026