PARIS — Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, has been snubbed by French Open organizers for a prime scheduling slot, sparking controversy as his next match will not take place on Court Philippe-Chatrier. Instead, British rising star Jack Draper’s opponent, world No. 172 Jesper de Jong, has been handed the advantage of playing on the tournament’s premier court.
The decision has raised eyebrows among tennis analysts and fans, with many questioning whether the tournament is deliberately sidelining Djokovic amid his recent struggles. The Serbian, who has won the French Open three times, has looked far from his best in Paris this year, dropping sets in his opening two matches against Pierre-Hugues Herbert and Roberto Carballés Baena.
Djokovic’s Unusual Placement
Traditionally, top seeds and defending champions are granted priority on the main show courts, but Djokovic will instead play his third-round match against Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti on Court Suzanne-Lenglen. Meanwhile, Draper, ranked No. 35, and qualifier de Jong have been allocated Court Philippe-Chatrier—a move that has been perceived as a slight against the world No. 1.
A tournament insider, speaking anonymously, defended the decision: "Scheduling is always a balancing act. We consider player requests, broadcast demands, and match competitiveness. Draper’s match was deemed a compelling storyline."
Djokovic’s Struggles Under Scrutiny
Djokovic’s form has been under intense scrutiny this season. The 37-year-old has yet to win a title in 2024 and suffered early exits in Monte Carlo, Rome, and Geneva. His shaky performances in Paris have only fueled speculation about his longevity at the top.
Tennis analyst Craig O’Shannessy noted: "Novak’s movement and serve haven’t been sharp. If he doesn’t find his rhythm soon, Musetti—who took a set off him here last year—could capitalize."
Key Concerns for Djokovic:
- Lack of match sharpness after limited play in 2024
- Uncharacteristic unforced errors in baseline rallies
- Diminished first-serve percentage (just 58% in Round 2)
- Visible frustration during matches, including multiple code violations
Draper’s Rising Stock
While Djokovic’s placement has drawn criticism, Draper’s ascent is a legitimate storyline. The 22-year-old Brit, who reached the semifinals in Lyon last week, is seen as a future top-10 player. His powerful lefty game and aggressive net play have impressed fans and pundits alike.
Former British No. 1 Tim Henman remarked: "Jack’s got the weapons to go deep here. Facing a qualifier on Chatrier is a huge opportunity—one Novak would usually expect for himself."
Tournament’s Controversial History
This isn’t the first time Roland Garros scheduling has sparked debate. In 2022, organizers faced backlash for placing Rafael Nadal’s quarterfinal against Djokovic in the evening session, favoring local favorite Alizé Cornet on Chatrier instead. Nadal later criticized the decision, calling the night conditions unfavorable for his heavy topspin game.
Djokovic has largely avoided public complaints, but his coach, Goran Ivanišević, hinted at frustration: "Novak is a professional, but certain decisions are hard to understand. He’s earned the right to play on the biggest stages."
What’s Next?
If Djokovic overcomes Musetti, a potential fourth-round clash with either Francisco Cerundolo or Tommy Paul awaits. Draper, meanwhile, will look to seize his moment against de Jong. The scheduling snub could either galvanize Djokovic or further expose his vulnerabilities.
French Open tournament director Amélie Mauresmo has yet to comment publicly, but sources suggest broadcasters pushed for Draper’s match due to rising British viewership. With Djokovic’s form in question, organizers may be hedging their bets on the next generation.
As the drama unfolds, one thing is clear: Djokovic, a player accustomed to center stage, now finds himself in an unfamiliar supporting role—at least for now.