Novak Djokovic jeered during battling victory over home hopeful Valentin Royer
Novak Djokovic was booed by the French Open crowd during a gruelling second-round win over Valentin Royer.
The third seed repeatedly expressed displeasure with the crowd making noise during points and in between serves.
When he saved a break point at a crucial moment in the fourth set, Djokovic put his finger to his lips in the direction of the home fans, earning loud jeers.
The 39-year-old also clearly did not enjoy playing in the heat of the afternoon on Court Philippe Chatrier, but he lived to fight another day after winning 6-3 6-2 6-7 (7) 6-3 in three hours and 44 minutes.
“It’s a very important victory,” said Djokovic. “The conditions are difficult for players. I had chances in the third set and it was my fault because I was twice a break up.
“It’s normal to have a few complications. I hope I won’t play against any other French players. That’s enough. I’ve played two matches and I feel like I’ve played two weeks.
“When I had a match point in the tie-break I was too passive and he took advantage. It’s very, very hot, but I’m happy to get through.”
Djokovic claimed a 30th consecutive win against French players when he defeated Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in round one, also dropping a set.
He turned that contest around after a tricky start and initially had few problems against Royer as he sought to reach the third round here for a 21st consecutive year.
Djokovic twice led by a break in the third set but both times Royer, ranked 74 and bidding for a first top-10 win, pegged him back straight away before delighting the home fans by saving a match point and winning the tie-break.
One break in the fourth set ultimately proved enough for Djokovic, although not before Royer had saved three more match points, one with a brilliant half-volley.
