Novak Djokovic handily outplays Moutet, progressing to the French Open's round of 32.
Novak Djokovic overcame a blister on his left foot during a tense third set of his French Open match against French player Ugo Humbert, ultimately advancing to the round of 32 in Paris. The 24-time Grand Slam champion required a medical timeout to receive treatment for the affliction, but he managed to save a set point in the tie-break and clinched victory.
"Things got a little bit complicated with the blister. That was bothering me for a bit," Djokovic admitted post-match. He expressed optimism that the issue wouldn't pose a significant hurdle in his recovery given the circumstances.
The electric atmosphere in Spectators' Court — notably during the third set when Humbert threatened to extend the match — added to the challenges Djokovic faced, but the three-time French Open champion successfully regained his momentum, improving his winning streak against French opponents at Roland Garros to 12-0.
Recalling the encounter, Djokovic reflected, "The atmosphere was electric, especially in that third set. He was close to win it, so the crowd got involved. And it was, yeah, not much fun for me."
Djokovic's current focus lies on his match against 23-year-old Austrian qualifier Filip Misolic, who will test his mettle for a place in the last 16. Misolic triumphed over Canadian 27th seed Denis Shapovalov in a grueling five-set encounter, staving off a valiant comeback to secure a 7-6, 7-6, 4-6, 4-6, 6-3 victory.
In other tournament news, Djokovic has put forth a humorous request to organizers, expressing hope that his next match won't fall on the same night as the Champions League final, in which Paris Saint-Germain will be vying for their first European crown against Inter Milan. Djokovic, an avowed PSG supporter, plans to catch the match if he's not scheduled for a night session.
"Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, might find a different kind of excitement outside the tennis court, as he has humbly asked tournament organizers to avoid scheduling his next match on the same night as the Champions League final between Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan, expressing his avid support for the former."
"In the midst of his French Open campaign, Djokovic's focus remains on his tennis game, but his spirit remains strongly rooted in sports; particularly tennis and football, considering his aspiration to watch the Champions League final if he doesn't have a night session scheduled."
