PARIS – Novak Djokovic was likened to a snake devouring its prey Tuesday as his bid to become the first man in half a century to win all four Grand Slam titles twice got off to a straightforward start at Roland Garros.
World number one Djokovic, returning to Grand Slam action for the first time since his US Open disqualification, eased past Sweden’s Mikael Ymer.
It was his 32nd win in 33 matches in 2020 and kept him on course for a second French Open title following his 2016 triumph, and 18th career major.
“It’s always a pleasure to return to Paris on Philippe Chatrier, this important court. The atmosphere is a little different this year with few fans but I remain motivated to win the title,” said Djokovic, only one of two men to have defeated 12-time champion, Rafael Nadal, in 15 years in Paris.
The 33-year-old top seed is in the second round for a record-equalling 16th time, matching Guillermo Vilas and Nadal.
Djokovic, who suffered no immediate hangover from his US Open controversy by quickly wrapping up a record 36th Masters title in Rome on the eve of Roland Garros, faces Lithuania’s Ricardas Berankis.
Ymer, making just his fourth main draw appearance at a major, graphically summed up the challenge of facing Djokovic.
“It felt like when a snake kills its prey,” said 22-year-old Ymer. “I had chances to rally but then I got suffocated.” – AFP, September 30, 2020
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