French Open 2026 results: Rusty Novak Djokovic beats Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in four sets

Novak Djokovic showed signs of rust as he had to come back from a set down to beat world number 83 Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in four sets in the first round of the French Open.

The third seed, who is bidding for a record 25th Grand Slam singles title, had played just 11 singles matches in 2026 before arriving in Paris; including losing in three sets to Dino Prizmic in his only match on clay.

The 39-year-old was visibly frustrated in the opening two sets as he struggled against the 2.01-metre (6ft 7in) Frenchman’s serve and fierce forehand, winning the first set 7-5 and then wasting nine break points in the second before converting his fourth set point.

This proved to be the turning point of the match as Djokovic completed the third set in just 22 minutes, closing it out with a 5-7 7-5 6-1 6-4 victory.

He will face another home hope, Valentin Royer, in the second round on Wednesday.

More to follow.