Reflecting on some of the sport’s most iconic achievements, Nadal was asked about the possibility of future players surpassing historic milestones. His response immediately caught the attention of tennis fans around the world. “You never know, but if you allowed me to bet money, I think it will take longer for someone to surpass 14 Roland Garros titles than 24 Grand Slams.”

The statement has generated significant controversy because many fans interpreted it as Nadal placing greater value on his record 14 Roland Garros titles than Djokovic’s all-time mark of 24 Grand Slam championships. While Nadal may ultimately be proven right, the comparison has reignited one of tennis’ most passionate discussions.

Rafael Nadal vs Novak Djokovic controversy

Supporters of Rafael Nadal argue that winning Roland Garros 14 times may indeed be the most difficult accomplishment in tennis history. No player has ever come close to matching that level of dominance at a single Grand Slam tournament, and the physical demands of clay-court tennis make the feat even more remarkable.

However, critics contend that Djokovic’s record is the more important achievement because it reflects excellence across every surface and every era. Winning 24 Grand Slam titles requires sustained dominance on clay, grass, and hard courts, making it a more complete measure of greatness.

The debate has exploded across social media, with many fans arguing that Nadal’s own comments unintentionally strengthen Djokovic’s case in the greatest-of-all-time discussion.

While Nadal’s 14 Roland Garros titles symbolize unmatched supremacy on clay, Djokovic’s 24 Grand Slam crowns are often viewed as proof of his ability to conquer every challenge the sport can offer. As a result, Nadal’s remarks have once again reignited one of the most enduring arguments in tennis history.

Djokovic was eliminated after losing 4-6, 4-6, 6-3, 7-5, 7-5 despite holding a two-set lead. Fonseca’s comeback instantly became one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 French Open and potentially one of the defining victories of the young Brazilian’s career.

Shortly after the match, Novak Djokovic posted a message on social media with a lot of uncertainty surrounding his future at Roland Garros. “An epic battle, Joao. And a hard-fought victory you deserve. Best of luck for the rest of the tournament and the incredible career you have ahead of you. As for Paris… tu as mon coeur.”

Novak Djokovic fuels speculation about his Roland Garros future

The message arrives amid growing speculation that this may have been Djokovic’s final appearance at Roland Garros. Following the loss, the Serbian was asked directly whether he expected to return to Paris in 2027 and admitted that he simply did not know.

That uncertainty has fueled retirement discussions throughout the tennis world. At 39 years old, Djokovic knows opportunities to compete for Grand Slam titles are becoming increasingly limited, making this year’s French Open especially painful after the draw opened up following the absence of several top contenders.

For now, the only thing confirmed is that Djokovic intends to continue pursuing Grand Slam No. 25 at Wimbledon. While the challenge remains enormous, many still view the grass-court major as one of his best remaining chances to add another historic title to his resume.

There is also reason for optimism among Djokovic’s supporters. The Serbian has repeatedly suggested that competing at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics remains one of his long-term goals after winning Olympic gold in Paris in 2024. Whether he ultimately reaches that milestone remains uncertain, but for now, his emotional farewell message has only intensified questions about when his legendary career will finally come to an end.

Jannik Sinner struggled with dizziness and was beaten by 56th-ranked Juan Manuel Cerundolo 3-6, 2-6, 7-5, 6-1, 6-1 after wasting two chances to serve for the match. On Novak Djokovic‘s side, he was defeated by Joao Fonseca, who became the first teenager to beat Djokovic at a Grand Slam. He did it with power, poise, and from two sets down, winning 4-6, 4-6, 6-3, 7-5, 7-5.

With these results and the recent victory of Alexander Zverev, the fourth-round matchups are nearly set. Zverev will face Jesper de Jong, and Joao Fonseca will go up against Casper Ruud. Sinner’s conqueror is the only one left to play, as Juan Manuel Cerundolo will face Martin Landaluce in search of his ticket to the fourth round.

Updated bracket

The defeats of Novak Djokovic, who spoke about his retirement, and Jannik Sinner, who made no excuses regarding the schedule, surely position Alexander Zverev as one of the ultimate favorites to take home the Grand Slam. Here is how the bracket looks for the remainder of this great French Open:

Third Round (May 29-30)

• Juan Manuel Cerundulo vs. Martin Landaluce
• Matteo Berrettini vs. Francisco Comesana
• (19) Francis Tiafoe vs. Jaime Faria
• Raphael Collignon vs. Matteo Arnaldi
• (4) Felix Auger-Aliassime vs. (31) Brandon Nakashima
• Moise Kouame vs. Alejandro Tabilo
• (10) Flavio Cobolli vs. (18) Learner Tien
• (25) Francisco Cerundolo vs. Zachary Svajda

Round of 16 (May 31-June 1)

• (11) Andrey Rublev vs. (26) Jakub Mensik
• (28) Joao Fonseca vs. (15) Casper Ruud
• Pablo Carrena Busta vs. (27) Rafael Jodar
• Jesper de Jong vs. (2) Alexander Zverev

Remaining dates

The scheduled dates for the upcoming rounds of the Roland Garros are set for the following days, with the Quarterfinals taking place on June 2-3, the Semifinals on June 5, and the final on June 7. There are still many interesting players to watch, though the tournament feels a bit strange without the main protagonists present.

After falling in an epic five-set battle despite leading by two sets, Djokovic had nothing but praise for the Brazilian superstar prospect. The legend openly discussed Fonseca’s long-term potential and the impact the Brazilian could have on the next generation of tennis stars.

“He definitely has the potential to do that. Things have to come together. He’s very professional. The talent he’s got, the firepower. The whole Brazilian nation cheering him on. Hopefully, he can be the next great thing and win Slams.”

Novak Djokovic admits Joao Fonseca was better in decisive moments

Novak Djokovic also gave a brutally honest assessment of how the match unfolded, admitting Fonseca elevated his level dramatically during the most important moments of the fourth and fifth sets.

Despite the painful defeat, the Serbian insisted he did not feel he played badly overall. “It was just amazing from his side. I don’t think I’ve done too much wrong with my game. He was just better. Incredible match to be a part of. Tough one for me to lose being two sets to love up. But huge credit to Joao for really deserving to win the match.”

The 39-year-old continued by explaining how Fonseca repeatedly found spectacular shots under pressure as the momentum completely shifted late in the match.

“He, without a doubt, was the better player in the important moments, in those crucial fourth and fifth sets. Some amazing exchanges and points and he just found incredible shots, lines. It was just amazing from his side. Obviously not great for me to be facing a player playing such a level.”

The result instantly becomes one of the defining moments of Fonseca’s young career while also potentially signaling a symbolic changing of the guard in men’s tennis. For Djokovic, the loss represents another painful missed opportunity to chase Grand Slam No. 25. For Joao, it may be the beginning of something much bigger.

With Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz absent from the draw, many believed this French Open represented one of Djokovic’s best remaining opportunities to capture a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title. Instead, the 39-year-old leaves Paris much earlier than expected after losing an epic battle.

After the match, Djokovic had a revealing exchange with a reporter that instantly fueled speculation about retirement and whether fans may have just witnessed his last Roland Garros appearance. “Will we see you back at Roland Garros next year?” Novak said: “I don’t know.” Then, the reporter had a follow up question. “Would it be okay if that was your last match, to play against a player like that?” The legend answered: “I don’t know.”

Will Novak Djokovic retire soon?

Novak Djokovic didn’t talk about retirement and wasn’t sure if he’ll come back to Roland Garros in 2027. The emotional comments hit especially hard considering how much Paris means in Djokovic’s career.

Beyond winning the Musketeers’ Trophy three times, Roland Garros also became the site of one of the greatest moments of his career when he captured the Olympic gold medal in 2024 by defeating Carlos Alcaraz in the final.

Now, attention immediately shifts toward Wimbledon, which increasingly feels like Djokovic’s final realistic opportunity to pursue Grand Slam No. 25. However, the challenge appears enormous with a fully recovered Jannik Sinner expected to lead a loaded draw alongside the next generation of stars continuing to rise rapidly.

Even after the devastating defeat, Djokovic’s legacy remains untouchable as one of the greatest athletes in tennis history. But after his emotional comments in Paris, the possibility that Roland Garros 2026 could become his final appearance at the French Open suddenly feels very real.

If Djokovic loses to Fonseca, the immediate result would be a shocking third-round elimination from the 2026 Roland Garros. But the long-term impact could be even bigger considering how open the tournament suddenly became after the exits of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, the two players many expected to dominate the draw in Paris.

For that reason, many tennis analysts already view this French Open as perhaps Djokovic’s best remaining chance to extend his Grand Slam record. With younger stars continuing to rise and the physical demands of five-set tennis becoming more difficult at his age, opportunities like this may not appear often again.

What happens if Novak Djokovic loses vs Joao Fonseca?

Novak Djokovic would be eliminated with a loss to Joao Fonseca. Djokovic already owns 24 Grand Slam titles, the most in men’s tennis history, but the chase for No. 25 has become one of the defining storylines of the final stage of his legendary career. Winning another major would move him even further ahead historically and strengthen his case as the greatest player ever.

That is why a defeat against Fonseca would resonate far beyond Roland Garros itself. The Brazilian teenager is considered one of the brightest young talents in tennis, but Djokovic entered the match as the overwhelming favorite due to his experience, accomplishments and history in Paris. Also, he had a 2-0 lead.

A loss could also intensify questions about whether Djokovic still has enough physically to survive deep Grand Slam runs consistently against younger opponents. While the Serbian remains one of the smartest and most mentally dangerous players on tour, age inevitably becomes a factor during long tournaments played over two weeks.

At the same time, Fonseca represents exactly the type of fearless next-generation player capable of creating problems for established stars. The Brazilian has quickly built a reputation for explosive shot-making and emotional confidence on big stages, making the matchup especially dangerous despite Djokovic’s experience advantage.

If Djokovic survives, the conversation around Grand Slam No. 25 will only grow louder. But if Fonseca delivers the upset, Roland Garros 2026 could instantly become remembered as one of the most painful missed opportunities of Djokovic’s historic career.

What happens if Novak Djokovic beats Joao Fonseca at 2026 Roland Garros?

If Novak Djokovic manages to defeat Joao Fonseca in Roland Garros, the path ahead would remain extremely challenging. A potential Round of 16 matchup against either Casper Ruud or Tommy Paul could await the Serbian star, with both players possessing the level and physical consistency needed to create major problems deep into a Grand Slam tournament on clay.

With a playful post-match dance celebration, Sabalenka proved she is ready for whatever challenge Djokovic throws her way. The Serbian legend had celebrated his own first-round victory—a hard-fought 5-7, 7-5, 6-1, 6-4 win over Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard that broke yet another Grand Slam record previously held by Roger Federer—with a similar dance of his own.

Sabalenka’s flawless clay-court performance against Bouzas Maneiro marked a significant career milestone, securing her 30th career victory at a Grand Slam tournament being World’s No. 1. While she remains a long way off from matching legends like Martina Hingis—who racked up over 50 Major wins while sitting atop the rankings—the Belarusian star continues to build an elite resume.

With her ceiling seemingly limitless, Sabalenka looks poised for a deep run in Paris as she aims to defend her World No. 1 ranking. A title under the lights at Roland Garros would edge her closer to the legendary status achieved by icons like Serena and Venus Williams, and Steffi Graf.

Sabalenka’s performance so far this season

Boasting a stellar 22-4 singles record this season, Sabalenka has proven she is playing some of the best tennis of her career. Her dominant year already includes titles in Brisbane and at the Miami Open, where she outlasted American star Coco Gauff in a thrilling 6-2, 4-6, 6-3 final.

Here is a closer look at her statistical dominance so far this season:

• Aces per Match: 5.4
• Double Faults per Match: 2.3
• First Serve Percentage: 67.4%
• First Serve Points Won %: 74.8%
• Second Serve Points Won %: 58.1%

Expectations remain sky-high for Sabalenka in the year’s second Grand Slam, especially as she seeks redemption on the Major stage following a heartbreaking loss to Elena Rybakina at the Australian Open earlier this year.

The victory means Djokovic has officially taken standalone possession of one of tennis’s most coveted records. By making his 82nd Grand Slam appearance, he breaks his tie with Federer (81). For the Serbian star, the statistics continue to lean heavily in his favor as the former world No. 1 shows no signs of slowing down, even as the next generation of players hits its stride.

Djokovic’s ability to absorb his opponents’ best shots and respond with tactical precision highlighted why he remains the most feared competitor in the sport, even as Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner play some of the best tennis of their young careers.

Meanwhile, Sinner recently set an all-time Masters 1000 record by surpassing Djokovic with a win over Andrey Rublev. Yet, Djokovic’s latest performance was a classic display of problem-solving under pressure, reminding the tennis world that beating him across five sets still requires an almost flawless performance.

Breaking a legendary tie with Roger Federer

By securing the win, Djokovic officially broke his tie with Federer for the most career match victories at Grand Slam tournaments. This latest milestone adds to a staggering resume that already includes the record for most total weeks at No. 1 and the most Masters 1000 titles in tennis history.

Overcoming a slow start at Roland Garros to secure history

The record-breaking moment did not come without its share of drama on the clay, as Djokovic had to overcome a sluggish start to defeat French talent Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in a grueling four-set battle, 5-7, 7-5, 6-1, 6-4.

After dropping the opening set to the young powerhouse’s blistering serve, Djokovic relied on his signature counter-punching and veteran composure to tilt the momentum back in his favor.

As Roland Garros progresses, all eyes will remain on Djokovic to see how far he can extend this newly minted record. With the physical hurdles of the opening rounds cleared, the top seed has sent a clear message to the rest of the draw that he remains the standard-bearer in men’s tennis.

Sinner’s triumph marks his 32nd consecutive win at the Masters level, breaking Djokovic’s storied record for the longest winning streak in the history of the format. Given his current torrid pace, the World No. 1 appears well-positioned to extend that historic mark even further as the tournament progresses.

The milestones don’t stop there. Sinner has now claimed 64 of his last 66 sets in Masters events, a staggering display of dominance. The Italian superstar continues to prove that regardless of the surface or the stakes, he is in a league of his own, rewriting the record books with every match.

Having recently surpassed Roger Federer’s personal best Masters streak, Sinner’s latest feat against Rublev serves as a definitive statement. This isn’t just a hot streak; it is a total takeover of the ATP circuit by a player firmly in his prime.

Sinner’s eye-popping stats by the numbers

The Italian star has signaled to the rest of the tour that he has evolved past the hurdles of last season, including his high-profile battles against rivals Carlos Alcaraz and Djokovic.

A closer look at Sinner’s historic run through the Masters 1000 circuit:

• 32 consecutive Masters 1000 match wins (All-time record)
• 18th career Masters semifinal at just 24 years old
• 50th overall career semifinal
• 2nd semifinal appearance in Rome
• 49–2 record over his last 51 matches

What’s next for Sinner in Rome?

With a spot in the semifinals secured, Sinner now awaits the winner of the clash between Casper Ruud and Luciano Darderi. Ruud has already weighed in on Sinner, offering high praise for the Italian’s evolving and nearly impenetrable baseline style.

Following the loss to the 20-year-old Prizmic, Djokovic snapped a streak of 18 consecutive victories in his opening matches at the Rome Masters 1000. On the other side of the net, Prizmic secured his second-ever win over a Top 10 opponent, adding to his previous upset of Ben Shelton at the Madrid Masters.

Djokovic appeared dominant at the start, cruising through the first set while dropping only two games. However, physical issues became apparent in the second set, visibly hampering his movement across the clay. Prizmic seized the opportunity, shifting to an aggressive style of play and capitalizing on every opening to claim the second set and the eventual decider.

Djokovic won’t play before Roland Garros

During his post-match press conference, the Serb confirmed that he does not intend to play any further tournaments before the French Open. This means he will arrive at the year’s second Grand Slam with only one competitive match played on clay.

“No. This year, no,” said Djokovic when asked if he would enter another event before Roland Garros. “I’ll just go to Paris straight”. The decision is a notable departure from his schedule over the last two seasons, during which he competed in the Geneva Open as a warm-up for Paris.

Djokovic says Rome preparation was ‘not ideal’

While the physical struggles during the second set were evident, Djokovic admitted that his buildup to the Italian Masters was compromised by lingering health concerns.

“I don’t recall the last time I had in the last couple years a preparation where I didn’t have any kind of physical issues or health issues coming into the tournament. There’s always something,” Djokovic told reporters during his press conference. “It’s kind of a new reality that I have to deal with. Yeah, it is frustrating. At the same time, it’s my decision to still perform in that kind of state and conditions. It is what it is”.

If the World No. 1 lifts the trophy at the Rome Open, he will achieve the Career Golden Masters—winning all nine Masters 1000 tournaments at least once—joining Djokovic as the only players in history to accomplish the feat.

The key distinction remains that the Serbian legend has done it twice. The 24-time Grand Slam champion first completed the set in 2018 at the Cincinnati Masters, before repeating the achievement at the same tournament in 2020.

Djokovic’s unmatchable Masters record

When it comes to the Masters 1000 circuit, Djokovic stands alone. The Serb has dominated these events, holding the record for the most titles with 40 trophies, a benchmark that currently seems untouchable.

Following the Serbian in the record books are Rafael Nadal (36 titles), Roger Federer (28 titles), Andre Agassi (17 titles), and Andy Murray (14 titles). While the Italian currently has nine Masters trophies in his cabinet, he has the unique chance to match a specific record that no one besides Djokovic has been able to touch.

Sinner breaks Djokovic and Nadal’s streak

In his pursuit of the Career Golden Masters, Sinner has already snatched a record from the hands of both Djokovic and Nadal. With his victory at the Madrid Open, the Italian became the first player in history to win five consecutive Masters 1000 tournaments.

The previous record held by both legends was four consecutive titles. However, a dominant run through Paris (2025), Indian Wells, Miami, Monte-Carlo, and now Madrid has allowed Sinner to set a new standard on the ATP Tour.