On June 2, 2025, Novak Djokovic delivered a masterclass at Roland Garros, as Djokovic beats Norrie to join Nadal in French Open century club. The Serbian tennis legend dominated Britain’s Cameron Norrie in a straight-sets victory, 6-2, 6-3, 6-2, to secure his 100th match win at the French Open. This milestone places him alongside Rafael Nadal as the only men to achieve a century of victories at the clay-court Grand Slam. Djokovic’s performance was a testament to his enduring brilliance, showcasing why he remains a formidable force at 38, chasing a record-breaking 25th major title.
A Milestone Match: Djokovic Beats Norrie to Join Nadal
The fourth-round clash on Court Philippe-Chatrier was a one-sided affair. Djokovic, the three-time French Open champion, faced a resilient but outmatched Norrie. The Briton, who had been enjoying a resurgence after defeating former world number one Daniil Medvedev in the first round, couldn’t find an answer to Djokovic’s precision and relentless baseline game. Early in the first set, the players traded breaks, but Djokovic quickly asserted dominance, running Norrie ragged with his trademark defensive prowess and pinpoint shot-making. By the third set, a crucial break in the third game sealed Norrie’s fate, as Djokovic closed out the match with a commanding performance.
This victory wasn’t just about advancing to the quarterfinals. It marked Djokovic’s 100th win at Roland Garros, a feat only Nadal, with 112 wins, has surpassed among men. The achievement underscores Djokovic’s longevity and adaptability on clay, a surface once considered his weakest. His focus was evident, as he didn’t drop a single set in the tournament up to this point, a stark contrast to his earlier struggles in 2025, including early exits in Monte Carlo and Madrid.
A Season of Redemption
Djokovic’s journey to this milestone hasn’t been without challenges. Earlier this year, a muscle tear forced him to retire from the Australian Open semifinals, leading to disappointing results in Doha and Indian Wells. However, a late decision to compete in Geneva proved pivotal. There, he won his 100th career title, defeating Hubert Hurkacz in a thrilling final. This triumph boosted his confidence heading into Paris, where he’s now reminding younger rivals like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz of his unyielding hunger for success. His ability to bounce back at 38 is nothing short of remarkable, proving that age is just a number for the Serbian star.
| Djokovic’s 2025 French Open Run | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
| First Round | Mackenzie McDonald | 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 |
| Second Round | Corentin Moutet | 6-3, 6-2, 7-6(1) |
| Third Round | Filip Misolic | 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 |
| Fourth Round | Cameron Norrie | 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 |
Djokovic Beats Norrie to Join Nadal: What’s Next?
With this victory, Djokovic advances to face third seed Alexander Zverev in the quarterfinals, a matchup that promises high stakes. Zverev, fresh off a strong performance against Tallon Griekspoor, poses a significant challenge, but Djokovic’s current form suggests he’s ready for the battle. The Serbian has a perfect 6-0 record against Norrie, including a recent win in Geneva, and his ability to maintain focus under pressure makes him a favorite to continue his march toward a fourth French Open title.
Djokovic’s milestone also sparks conversations about his place in tennis history. Joining Nadal in the century club is a rare honor, and with Nadal now retired, Djokovic has a chance to close the gap on the Spaniard’s 112 Roland Garros wins. His pursuit of a 25th Grand Slam title, which would set a new record, adds even more intrigue to his 2025 campaign. Fans are buzzing about whether he can maintain this level of dominance against a field of younger, hungry players.
A Legacy Cemented on Clay
Djokovic’s 100th win at Roland Garros is more than a statistic; it’s a symbol of his resilience and adaptability. Clay has historically been his toughest surface, yet he’s now one of only two men to reach this milestone. His ability to evolve his game, from his early days as a baseline grinder to a versatile all-court player, has kept him at the top. This victory over Norrie highlights his mental toughness, especially after a season marked by injury and inconsistency. As he prepares for Zverev, the tennis world watches with bated breath, wondering if Djokovic can add another chapter to his storied career.
Stay tuned to see if Novak Djokovic can continue his quest for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title at the 2025 French Open. Follow the action, share your thoughts, and join the conversation about this historic milestone!