Visual Story: Novak Djokovic stars at night to roll through Roland Garros title defense opener


A day after turning 35, Novak Djokovic began his Roland Garros title defense in emphatic fashion Monday evening in Paris against Yoshihito Nishioka.


The Serbian entered with a remarkable 60-2 record in opening rounds on the major stage.


Night sessions debuted last year at the Paris major, albeit in an empty Chatrier due to COVID-19 restrictions.


In his first two meetings with Nishioka, the world No. 1 conceded just 10 games across five sets…


… and the narrative pretty much continued under the lights once Djokovic saved three break points to win a 16-point opening game.


The Serbian claimed 57 percent of his return points against both the first and second serve of Nishioka to apply overwhelming pressure.


At one stage, when Djokovic roared in celebration, the crowd booed. It only compelled the two-time champ to roar more passionately after the ensuing point (with louder boos to follow).


If anything, it was a perfect symbol of Djokovic’s campaign launch—a roaring 6-3, 6-1, 6-0 opening statement as he bids to tie Rafael Nadal with a 21st major title.