CNN
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Novak Djokovic won his first clay court victory of the 2025 season, defeating Hungarian Malton Fukkovis 6-2, 6-3 to reach the quarter-finals of the Geneva Open.
It was Djokovic’s first victory at Clay, winning gold at the Parisio Games in August and completing the career singles golden slam.
The Serbian star never faced a breakpoint — and his performance was a tough improvement at the exit of the recent first round in Monte Carlo and Madrid.
“My first victory at Clay this season. Clearly, in a way, it’s great to break the ice,” Djokovic said in an on-court interview. “It’s a very tough surface.” We all know how difficult it can be to play with clay.
“There’s a little more altitude here, so that helps you have a good serve. Today I think I was my strongest shot. I had a very high percentage of my first serves.
“It makes life in court a little easier. I’m extremely pleased to be able to play the best tennis when I need it the most. Throughout the last moments, I was very focused and pleased with the level of tennis.
The 24-time Grand Slam Singles champion, who turned 38 on Thursday, is still bid to win his 100th ATP title.
Djokovic, who broke up with coach Andy Murray last week, came to Geneva on a three-game winning streak after losing in the Miami Open final.
Geneva’s second seed Djokovic will face Matteo Arnald, who beat him in Madrid to compete in the semi-finals on Thursday.
Although it’s a victory, his performance has improved significantly, but it will be a great relief for Djokovic before the French Open, which begins on Sunday, as Serbia aims to win his 25th Grand Slam Singles title.