Mpetshi Perricard is ready to take on Novak Djokovic in the opening round of the Roland Garros. The big serving Frenchman would look to bring his best to the court in front of his home crowd and against one of the best players in the game’s history.

This will be the first meeting between these two players and Perricard would look to deliver. Djokovic, on the other hand, hasn’t played consistently in the season due to injury woes and the Frenchman would look to take advantage of the same.

“It’s going to be quite a fight,” Mpetshi Perricard said at his pre-tournament press conference. “It’s quite impressive when you have such a major name as an opponent, but to play well and to win a tournament you have to win against the best.”

Meanwhile, Perricard reached a career-high No. 29 in the PIF ATP Rankings last February and won two ATP Tour titles in 2024, in Lyon and Basel. The lanky player also reached the fourth round at Wimbledon in the same season.

Physically and mentally, the big man is ready after going through injury problems.

“I feel good,” said Mpetshi Perricard, the No. 80 player in the PIF ATP Rankings. “Lately I had problems. My wrist was in a bit of a problematic shape for a month on clay, but now I’m better, and I’m ready. 100 per cent ready, so physically I feel good.”

The 22-year-old youngster is looking forward to the biggest clash of his career with all the zest.

“No matter what happens at the end of the match, it’s going to bring a lot to my game,” said Mpetshi Perricard. “I’m very excited. I’m very happy that I have this opportunity.”

Perricard will take on Djokovic on Sunday.