Paris, 1 June (H.S.): Novak Djokovic advanced to the fourth round of the French Open for the 16th consecutive year, defeating Austrian qualifier Filip Misolic 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 at Court Philippe-Chatrier on June 1. Although Misolic demonstrated brief resistance, especially in the second set where he saved seven break points, Djokovic quickly regained control.

The 38-year-old Serb showcased his skill with 33 winners and limited his unforced errors, facing only one break point in a dominant performance that lasted just over two hours. This victory improves Djokovic’s career record at Roland Garros to 99-16, matching his tally at the Australian Open. Meanwhile, Indian doubles player N Sriram Balaji, partnering with Miguel Ángel Reyes-Varela, was eliminated in the second round after losing 3-6, 4-6 to fourth-seeded Italians Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori.

The duo struggled to find their rhythm, leading to an early exit. With Balaji and Rithvik Bollipalli out, India's hopes in men's doubles now rest solely on Rohan Bopanna and Yuki Bhambri, who remain in contention as the tournament progresses into the second week. Indian fans are looking to them to sustain the nation's representation in Paris.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar