Novak Djokovic handed Pierre-Hugues Herbert test to begin French Open defenceBy PA Sport StaffDefending champion Novak Djokovic will play wild card Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the first round of the men’s singles at next week’s French Open. World number one Djokovic, 37, who defeated Casper Ruud in straight sets in last year’s final, will be bidding for a record-extending 24th grand slam title at Roland Garros. Frenchman Herbert, 33, is currently 143 in the world rankings is better known as a doubles specialist, having won four grand slam doubles titles. Women’s world number one Iga Swiatek will launch the defence of her French Open crown against a qualifier or lucky loser in the opening round. Three-time grand slam champion Andy Murray must battle past old foe Stan Wawrinka, while British number one Cameron Norrie faces Russia’s world number 57 Pavel Kotov.

Source: Irish Independent May 23, 2024 22:39 UTC