Doubts have been circulating about the form of Novak Djokovic in 2024 and yet he still has a remarkable ability to peak at just the right time for a Grand Slam.
Whether major title No25 proves his in just over a week’s time is another matter but he set up a third-round meeting at the French Open with Lorenzo Musetti on Saturday with consummate ease.
There will be tougher challenges ahead of him than that of Spain’s Roberto Carballes Baena, who could muster just seven games won in the space of three increasingly one-sided sets.
In fact, the only stumbling block of any note were the Parisian crowds with which he took umbrage.
Djokovic has had his clashes in the past with those in the stands at Roland Garros but their behaviour has proved more of a talking point than ever before.
David Goffin was fuming after having gum spat at him by one spectator while Iga Swiatek also lodged a complaint, leading to tournament officials to take the step of banning drinking in seats for the duration of the event.
For Djokovic’s part, he complained to the umpire about one particular fan during the course of a clay-court demolition of his opponent.
“He shouted a few words during the rally,” said Djokovic afterwards. “When Carballes Baena made a drop shot and I was running, he was there in the first row.
“He started from the beginning of the match, he went on several times, which was fine, he was supporting my opponent. But I thought that was a bit of a hindrance as he was so close and as I was about to hit the ball, he was shouting.
“They are very passionate fans. I know that on the outside courts – I saw a little bit of highlights of Goffin’s match – that they can be even more loud and inappropriate at times. It’s a fine line when that line is passed and when it starts becoming disrespectful towards the player.
“I support a player standing up against people who are disrespecting and heckling him, it’s not always possible to tolerate.”
