The Serbian arrives at Roland Garros with limited clay-court preparation
- Novak Djokovic is targeting a record 25th Grand Slam title
- The Serbian has struggled with shoulder issues in 2026
- Djokovic had limited clay-court preparation before Roland Garros
- Jannik Sinner enters the French Open as the tournament favorite
Novak Djokovic will begin the 2026 French Open pursuing a historic 25th Grand Slam singles title, though questions remain over whether the Serbian is fully prepared for another deep run in Paris.
Djokovic enters Roland Garros after a difficult clay-court season that included limited match play, fitness concerns, and an early exit at the Italian Open. The 38-year-old also chose not to defend his Geneva Open title in the final week before the tournament. Speaking ahead of the French Open, Djokovic admitted his preparation had been far from ideal.
According to Reuters, Djokovic said, “It’s not ideal… There’s always something. A new reality that I have to deal with.”
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Djokovic is attempting to move ahead of Margaret Court’s tally of 24 Grand Slam singles titles and become the outright record-holder in tennis history, 25>24, 25>24, 25>24
Despite concerns surrounding his recent form, Djokovic remains one of the most accomplished players in the history of Roland Garros. He has won the French Open three times and claimed Olympic gold on the Paris clay courts during the 2024 Games.
The Serbian has increasingly adjusted his schedule in recent years to prioritize Grand Slam events, carefully managing recovery and physical workload late in his career.
Djokovic acknowledged earlier this year that maintaining perspective has become increasingly important as he continues competing at the highest level.
According to Reuters, he said during the Australian Open, “I have to appreciate the amazing career I had.”
Meanwhile, Jannik Sinner arrives in Paris as one of the leading favorites after winning the Italian Open, while several younger contenders are expected to challenge for the title during the two-week tournament.
Even with uncertainty surrounding his physical condition, Djokovic’s experience in Grand Slam competition means he is unlikely to be overlooked by the rest of the men’s field. The French Open begins Sunday at Roland Garros.
