In a dramatic fourth-round match at the French Open, Novak Djokovic overcame injury and a tough challenge from Argentina's Francisco Cerundolo to secure his 15th consecutive quarter-final appearance at Roland Garros. Djokovic's victory came after an intense five-set battle, finishing with a score of 6-1, 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3. Despite being 2-1 down in sets and 4-2 down in the fourth set, Djokovic mounted a thrilling comeback to win in four hours and 39 minutes.
Djokovic, who suffered a right knee injury during the match, expressed uncertainty about his fitness for his upcoming quarter-final against Casper Ruud. The reigning champion had previously defeated Lorenzo Musetti in another gruelling five-set match. Djokovic's match against Cerundolo was characterized by his resilience and determination, even as he struggled with injury and frustration over the slippery court conditions.
In other men's action, Daniil Medvedev, the fifth seed, was upset by Australia's Alex de Minaur in four sets, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1, 6-3. De Minaur advanced to his second Grand Slam quarter-final, where he will face Alexander Zverev, who won a five-set match against Holger Rune. Zverev's victory marked another late finish at the tournament, concluding at 1:40 am.
On the women's side, Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina both advanced comfortably to the quarter-finals. Sabalenka, the world number two, defeated American Emma Navarro 6-2, 6-3, demonstrating her powerful play with 36 winners. Sabalenka will face 17-year-old Russian Mirra Andreeva, who became the youngest French Open women's quarter-finalist since 2005 by defeating Varvara Gracheva.
Fourth seed Elena Rybakina overcame Elina Svitolina 6-4, 6-3 to set up a quarter-final clash with Italian Jasmine Paolini. Rybakina, a former Wimbledon champion, showcased her strong form as she continued her run at Roland Garros.
The French Open continues to provide thrilling matches and unexpected outcomes, with both the men's and women's draws featuring high-quality performances and dramatic finishes.
Comment: