Djokovic’s 100th Title Sparks French Open Hopes—But Will It Be Enough for a 25th Slam?
Novak Djokovic has officially joined tennis royalty. Just days ago, he captured his 100th career singles title at the Geneva Open, battling past Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz in a grueling 5-7, 7-6(2), 7-6(2) final. The victory places him alongside greats like Jimmy Connors (109 titles) and Roger Federer (103), forming the exclusive “100 Club.” Reflecting on the milestone, Djokovic said, “I’m just grateful to clinch the 100 here. I had to work for it, that is for sure.”
But as the Parisian clay awaits, the question now becomes: can he ride this momentum into his 25th Grand Slam title at Roland Garros?
Comienza la andadura de Novak Djokovic en París… con cabreo del serbio porque cree que se debe parar el partido por la lluvia. pic.twitter.com/LF9Ho3lK1K
— Germán R. Abril (@gerebit0) May 27, 2025
Djokovic seemed in command in his opening French Open match against American Mackenzie McDonald. However, he ran into a moment of tension when light rain began falling during play. Visibly frustrated, Djokovic engaged in a lengthy exchange with the chair umpire, who refused to halt the match. At 4-2 up, the Serb received a time violation, further souring the mood. Both players were clearly impacted by the weather, echoing delays that have plagued other matches—like those involving Ben Shelton, Frances Tiafoe, and Coco Gauff.
Despite the setbacks, Djokovic stayed focused and closed out the match. Looking ahead, his path won’t get easier. He’s projected to face home favorite Corentin Moutet next, with a possible third-round encounter against Denis Shapovalov. Further down the line loom tougher challenges: a potential Round of 16 clash with either Daniil Medvedev or Ugo Humbert, a quarterfinal against 2024 finalist Alexander Zverev, and a high-stakes semifinal showdown with current world No. 1 Jannik Sinner. Carlos Alcaraz, the defending champion, wouldn’t face Djokovic unless both make it to the final.
Last year, Djokovic had to withdraw in the quarterfinals due to injury, but his previous 2023 title at Roland Garros and a gold medal win at the Paris Olympics remind fans of what he’s capable of on clay.
His recent form and statements indicate he’s still determined to dominate the game’s elite. “I feel I can still play at the highest level,” Djokovic said in an earlier interview. “Sinner and Alcaraz have established themselves, but my experience can come in handy.”
Analysts are divided on his 2025 chances. Chris Evert expressed skepticism, saying he’ll need to play “spectacular tennis every single match.” On the flip side, Mats Wilander suggested that if Djokovic makes it to week two, he could become the “big, big favorite.” John McEnroe added that Djokovic may have “the best draw of anyone” to go deep, though he noted age will remain a looming factor.
Djokovic has also emphasized that he’s tailoring his schedule around the Slams this year: “Next year, I will play more tournaments, and the Grand Slams will be my priority.” And with his Geneva title, he’s made a powerful statement ahead of Roland Garros—he’s not done yet.
As the tournament unfolds, fans and critics alike will be watching to see if his 100th title is the boost he needed—or if the pressure, age, and outside distractions prove too much. But as history shows, counting out Novak Djokovic is never a safe bet.