In a dramatic five-set encounter that stretched into the early hours, Novak Djokovic defeated Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti at the French Open, with the match concluding at 03:07 local time in Paris.
The third-round clash, which began at 22:37 on a rain-affected Saturday, saw the defending champion Djokovic recover from a two-sets-to-one deficit to secure a 7-5, 6-7 (6-8), 2-6, 6-3, 6-0 victory. The 37-year-old Serbian, who appeared close to exiting the tournament at the hands of the inspired 30th seed Musetti, found renewed energy midway through the fourth set. Djokovic won six consecutive breaks of serve to dominate the decider.
After four hours and 29 minutes of intense play, the match ended with a warm embrace between Djokovic and his 22-year-old opponent. The Court Philippe Chatrier crowd also applauded Musetti’s valiant effort. The victory keeps Djokovic’s quest for a fourth French Open title alive, as he advances to face Argentina’s 23rd seed Francisco Cerundolo in the last 16.
Musetti, who had previously pushed Djokovic to five sets in the 2021 French Open before retiring injured, started strong, breaking serve in the third game of the match. However, Djokovic quickly responded, converting his first set point after a lengthy rally. Musetti leveled the match in a tight second-set tie-break and then broke Djokovic twice in the third set, moving within one set of victory.
At 2-2 in the fourth set, despite Musetti maintaining a high level of play, Djokovic’s experience shone through. He shifted into a higher gear, ultimately sealing his triumph with a stunning crosscourt forehand return winner.
This victory continues Djokovic’s impressive run at Roland Garros, reinforcing his position as the world number one and a formidable contender for the championship.
