The 38-year-old Novak Djokovic, a master of Grand Slam combat, has once again found his footing at the French Open, proving that his legendary spirit burns brightest on these grand stages. His impressive win against Alexander Zverev to reach the semi-finals, despite a prior slump in form, echoes his earlier triumph over Carlos Alcaraz at the Australian Open, demonstrating that the majors are his unwavering motivation.
However, the seemingly unstoppable force of Jannik Sinner now stands in his path. Sinner has carved a devastating path through the men’s draw, exhibiting a relentless and dominant brand of tennis unmatched by his peers. His tactical prowess and unwavering aggression have consistently put opponents on the defensive, leaving them to celebrate minimal victories.
Sinner’s immediate return to form at the Italian Open, reaching the final swiftly after a doping ban, served as a potent warning. Carlos Alcaraz’s pre-Paris caution about Sinner’s increased danger has been fully realized, with Sinner yet to drop a single set in the tournament. Djokovic, anticipating an incredibly high level of play, acknowledges Sinner’s consistent excellence.
Sinner’s game has evolved into a complete arsenal. His forehand is destructive, his two-handed backhand is arguably the best on tour, and his serve has become a crucial weapon. Furthermore, he is an elite returner and has developed into a formidable defender, making him incredibly difficult to break down. Sinner’s recent three consecutive wins against Djokovic, including the pivotal 2024 Australian Open semi-final, highlight his growing command in their rivalry.