Novak Djokovic continues his quest for a record 25th Grand Slam title as he takes on Valentin Royer in the second round of the French Open on a sweltering day four in Paris. The Serbian superstar, who is bidding to reach the third round at Roland Garros, faces the French wildcard under intense heatwave conditions that have prompted concerns over player safety.
Djokovic's Title Ambitions
Djokovic, the top seed, is seeking to add to his already legendary career with another major triumph. His path to glory, however, must navigate a challenging draw and the grueling Parisian heat. The afternoon session start time has raised eyebrows, with Alexander Zverev later scheduled for the night session against Tomas Machac. Djokovic is expected to take the court around 2pm or 3pm local time.
Medvedev's Miserable Record Continues
Daniil Medvedev suffered yet another first-round exit at the French Open, extending his miserable record at the clay-court Grand Slam. The former world number one, seeded sixth, fell to Australian wildcard Adam Walton in a five-set thriller, 6-2, 1-6, 6-1, 1-6, 6-4, in three hours and 22 minutes. Medvedev, 30, has now lost in the first round in seven of his ten appearances in Paris since his debut in 2017, including three of the last four years.
Pegula Stunned by Birrell
In the biggest upset of the tournament so far, fifth seed Jessica Pegula was defeated by Australian Kimberly Birrell 1-6, 6-3, 6-3. Pegula, who has never advanced past the quarter-finals at Roland Garros, now has three first-round losses in Paris. Birrell, ranked 83rd in the world, secured one of the most significant victories of her career and will face Ukraine's Oleksandra Oliynykova in the second round.
As the heatwave continues, players and officials are closely monitoring conditions on court, with medical protocols in place to ensure safety. Stay with us for live scores and updates throughout the day.
