Novak Djokovic cruises past Mackenzie McDonald in R1 at Roland Garros

No.6 seed Novak Djokovic had no issues in going past America’s Mackenzie McDonald in the opening round of the ongoing Roland Garros at Philippe-Chatrier on Tuesday. The Serbian registered a comprehensive 6-3, 6-3, 6-3 win to maintain his perfect R1 record at the French Open.

With this win, Djokovic improved to 20-0 in first-round matches at Roland Garros. Since 2010, Djokovic has not lost a set in the opening round at the clay-court Major. 

The veteran was able to wrap up the contest in one hour, 58 minutes to advance further in the tournament.

“I try to enjoy every moment on this very special and beautiful court,” said Djokovic in French in his on-court interview. “I feel good, clearly, even more here because I’m reliving the memories of last year’s Olympics, the last time I played on this court. [They are] beautiful emotions.

“It was a solid match. I know that he can play to a better standard than today, but I am very happy with what I produced.”

Djokovic, who has achieved everything there is to achieve in the record books, is even hungrier to create more history and keep going strongly at the top level.

“History in this sport has given me everything in my life, it means a lot to me,” said Djokovic, who has won a record 24 Grand Slam men’s singles titles. “I always try to make history where I can… In all the tournaments I play, all the practises, all the matches, and especially during the biggest tournaments in the world. There is an opportunity to make more history, and that is one of the biggest motivations I have for competitions, for continuing to work and better myself.”

Djokovic will face local lad Corentin Moutet in the second round on Thursday.