The French Open begins in Paris amid player concerns over prize money and influence in the sport.
Image SKY Sports
The first round of the French Open begins on Sunday in Paris, with Novak Djokovic starting his campaign for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title.
The Serbian star will face French player Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in the opening round as he aims to win his fourth French Open crown.
Djokovic, now 39, has played only one match since March because of injury problems. He said he hopes to stay physically fresh during the tournament and believes he still has a strong chance of winning another major title.
A 25th Grand Slam victory would move Djokovic ahead of Margaret Court for the most major singles titles in tennis history.
The tournament begins under growing tension between players and organisers. Some players limited their media appearances before the event due to concerns over prize money and player influence in tennis.
In the women’s competition, rising Russian star Mirra Andreeva will play France’s Fiona Ferro in the opening round. Andreeva has enjoyed a strong clay-court season and is considered one of the young players to watch.
Meanwhile, Germany’s Alexander Zverev will begin his campaign against Frenchman Benjamin Bonzi. Zverev is still searching for his first Grand Slam title after reaching several major finals in recent years.
The absence of injured world number two Carlos Alcaraz has increased expectations for Zverev and other top contenders at this year’s tournament.
