Novak Djokovic stormed into the third round of the 2017 French Open with an emphatic 6-1, 6-4, 6-3 win over Joao Sousa on Wednesday. It was a terrific performance by the 12-time Grand Slam champion who needed just two hours and seven minutes to defeat the Portuguese star. The defending champion is trying to become the first man in the Open Era – and the third man in history – to capture each of the four Grand Slams twice.
Djokovic, who recorded his 20th match win of the season, blasted 34 winners and won 80 percent of his first serve points against Sousa. What proved to be the difference in the match, however, was the Serbian’s sizzling return. Djokovic converted six of his 14 break point opportunities against Sousa.
With the victory, Djokovic is through to the third round of the French Open for the 12th time in his career. He will look to continue his hot streak when he takes on Diego Schwartzman in the last 32. The 30-year-old will fancy his chances against the Argentinian as he is 1-0 against Schwartzman in their head-to-head matchup. Djokovic destroyed Schwartzman in the first round of the 2014 US Open, 6-1, 6-2, 6-4.
Diego Schwartzman booked a spot in the third round of the 2017 French Open with a convincing 6-3, 7-5, 6-2 win over Stefano Napolitano on Wednesday. It was a superb showing from Schwartzman who needed just two hours and eight minutes to record the straight sets win. With the victory, Schwartzman is through to the round of 32 at Roland Garros for the first time in his career.
He will look to sustain the momentum of that huge victory when he takes on Novak Djokovic in the next round. For Schwartzman to record a major upset in the third round, the Argentinian needs to continue his excellent return play. He won 47 percent of his receiving points against Napolitano with the World No. 41 converting six of his 18 break point chances. Another key weapon for Schwartzman this coming Friday is his net attack. He won 13 of his 15 net points against Napolitano in the second round.
