PARIS - The French Open begins Sunday with Novak Djokovic launching his bid for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title. The 39-year-old Serbian, who has not played since March, faces French wildcard Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in the first round.
'If I'm able to maintain freshness and progress, I always have a very good chance,' Djokovic said.
The tournament opens under a cloud, with some players limiting media appearances amid disputes over prize money and player influence.
On the women's side, 19-year-old Russian Mirra Andreeva, winner of the Linz Open and a finalist in Madrid, takes on France's Fiona Ferro.
World number three Alexander Zverev, runner-up at Roland Garros in 2024, opens against Benjamin Bonzi. Zverev is among the favorites, especially with world number two Carlos Alcaraz sidelined by injury.