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Novak Djokovic: French Open defending champion’s chances

By Harry Floyd

May 29, 2017; Paris, France; Novak Djokovic (SRB) in action during his match against Marcel Granollers (ESP) (not pictured) on day two of the 2017 French Open tennis tournament at Stade Roland Garros. Mandatory Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
May 29, 2017; Paris, France; Novak Djokovic (SRB) in action during his match against Marcel Granollers (ESP) (not pictured) on day two of the 2017 French Open tennis tournament at Stade Roland Garros. Mandatory Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports /
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Novak Djokovic is off to a strong start at Roland Garros 2017. Here’s a look at the defending champion’s chances this year.

Novak Djokovic is the defending men’s singles champion at the French Open.

The Serbian tennis superstar defeated Andy Murray in 2016 to earn his first ever title at Roland Garros. Now, the second seeded Djokovic is making moves yet again.

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The French Open marks the beginning of a new era for Djokovic.

Having recently parted ways with his entire coaching team, the Serbian tennis star is going at his game in part on his own and in part with Andre Agassi. The former world No. 1 Agassi is appearing to be a positive force behind Djokovic both on and off the court.

In the first round of play, Djokovic defeated Marcel Granollers 6-3, 6-4, 6-2.

The straight set victory is exactly the start that Djokovic and Agassi were looking for.

This year, Rafael Nadal has reappeared in conversation as the heavy favorite to win, but now it seems that we cannot discount the defending champion’s chances.

The round of 64 saw Djokovic meeting Joao Sousa of Portugal. Seeing another straight set win, Djokovic advances 6-1, 6-4, 6-3.

His side of the draw sees the second seed potentially meeting the likes of Dominic Thiem, Rafael Nadal, and ultimately Milos Raonic in the semifinals. One significant upset came to American Jack Sock. If Novak Djokovic can continue his fine play at Roland Garros, however, he stands a chance against anyone he faces.

Stay tuned to see how Djokovic fares throughout the rest of his 2017 French Open campaign.

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