In Paris, the crowd can be louder than at other Grand Slams. You have to be prepared for it," says Djokovic
After defeating Mackenzie McDonald in the first round of Roland-Garros, Novak Djokovic is preparing for his second-round match against Corentin Moutet this Thursday on Court Suzanne-Lenglen.
When asked about the French crowd he will face, he stated: "Wherever you go, if you play against a local player, the crowd will be on their side. There’s nothing strange about that.
It’s true that here in Paris, France, compared to other Grand Slam tournaments, the crowd is louder, more passionate, and more energetic in supporting their players, which can be irritating for some people.
Of course, it’s not an ideal situation, but you have to be prepared. I’ve played in many hostile conditions throughout my career, and there’s nothing in this regard that I haven’t encountered before.
If I play against a French player at Roland-Garros, I expect the majority to support the French player—nothing personal.
It’s true that when you’re on the court and things cross the line, I understand players who want to protect their space, their integrity.
There will always be spectators who bother you, but I don’t think they’re the majority—just a few. It’s a battle, and sometimes not just with your opponent.
