PARIS (AFP) - Novak Djokovic is on the cusp of equaling Roger Federer's record for Grand Slam match wins as he prepares to face Lorenzo Musetti at the French Open on Saturday. The 37-year-old Serbian, a three-time Roland Garros champion, can match Federer's 369 victories in major tournaments if he defeats the 30th-seeded Italian and secures a spot in the last 16.
Djokovic, the defending champion, is seeking his 25th career Grand Slam title. His history with Musetti is largely favorable, having beaten the Italian four times in their five previous encounters. However, Musetti posed a significant challenge at the French Open in 2021, winning the first two sets of their fourth-round match before retiring due to injury
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"There is always that kind of conviction and belief inside of me I can win a Slam. That's the reason why I'm still competing at this level," Djokovic remarked.
Despite a turbulent start to the season, including injuries and setbacks, Djokovic has shown impressive form at Roland Garros. He has not dropped a set in his first two matches, most recently overpowering Spain's Roberto Carballes Baena with 43 winners.
### Zverev and Ruud Seek Further Progress
German fourth seed Alexander Zverev, who began his campaign by eliminating 14-time French Open champion Rafael Nadal, will face Dutch 26th seed Tallon Griekspoor. Zverev, who has reached the semi-finals in Paris for the past three years, acknowledged the significance of his win over Nadal but remains focused on the tournament ahead .
"Since the draw came out, the only thing the tennis world was talking about was that match," Zverev said. "He won the tournament 14 times, so he deserves all the credit and respect."
Norwegian seventh seed Casper Ruud, a finalist in the past two French Opens, endured a tough five-set battle against Spain's Alejandro Davidovich Fokina to advance. Ruud will next face Argentina's Tomas Martin Etcheverry, who progressed after his opponent retired due to injury.
### Women's Draw Highlights
In the women's tournament, second-seeded Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus will clash with her close friend, former world number two Paula Badosa, for a place in the last 16.
Sabalenka, the reigning Australian Open champion, acknowledged the challenge of facing a friend but emphasized their professionalism on the court.
Meanwhile, 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva continues her impressive run, having defeated former world number one Victoria Azarenka in a grueling three-set match. Andreeva will face American Peyton Stearns as she aims for her third Grand Slam last 16 appearance.
The French Open continues to deliver thrilling tennis action, with fans eagerly watching as top players vie for glory at Roland Garros.
