FRENCH OPEN: Djokovic, Nadal advance to fourth round

Defending champion Novak Djokovic came back from two sets to one down to win 5-7 6-3 3-6 6-1 6-1 in a third-round thriller against unseeded Argentine Diego Schwartzman.

The 30-year old finished strongly despite making 55 unforced errors and arguing with umpire Carlos Ramos over a conduct warning.

The Serb’s new coach Andre Agassi arrived midway through the second set and apparently inspired him to the win.

“I was focused on the screen and I saw obviously people reacting when he arrived,” said Djokovic after the match.

“He was not supposed to be here today, because we have finished yesterday with our in-person collaboration here in Paris.

“I appreciate that. I respect that very much that he managed to do things and move his commitments around so he could come and watch.”

The world number two goes on to face Spain’s Albert Ramos-Vinolas, who beat France’s Lucas Pouille.

Elsewhere, Nadal continued in his race to a 10th French Open title as he produced a brilliant display to beat Nikoloz Basilashvili 6-0 6-1 6-0.

Read Also: Murray confident of beating Del Potro in 3rd-round blockbuster​

The fourth seed needed only 90 minutes to see off the Georgian and secured his place in the fourth round with his most one-sided win at Roland Garros.

During his on-court interview on the match, Nadal admitted his uncle Toni and the rest of team would be delighted with his performance and he was happy to play so well ahead of his birthday.

“It is always important to be through, that’s the most important thing,” said Nadal. “But obviously when you have positive feelings it is even more important.

“Basilashvili had been playing well. He won against Gilles Simon in the first round who is a tough opponent and also Viktor Troicki.

“I’m happy because I had never played against him and I knew it would be tough.

“He hits the ball so quick but I believe I played my best match in a while.”

The Spaniard will be 31 on Saturday, and revealed he would be watching the Champions League final and cheering on his beloved Real Madrid on his special day.

“Tomorrow at 8.45pm I will be supporting my team and I hope Real Madrid will win another time,” he added.

 

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