24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic revived his viral battle dance celebration at the 2026 French Open and even challenged Aryna Sabalenka with a playful message after his first-round win at Roland Garros.
Following his comeback victory over Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, Djokovic recreated the same dance that became popular alongside Sabalenka during last year’s tournament. The Serbian star was seen dancing on the Roland Garros stairs before sending a cheeky challenge to the women’s World No.1.
Roland Garros later shared a video on social media in which Djokovic said: “Check this out. You can’t beat that, Aryna. I challenge you.”
The fun exchange quickly caught attention online, with fans enjoying the light-hearted rivalry between the two tennis stars. Sabalenka and Djokovic had also exchanged similar dance celebrations during the 2025 Roland Garros campaign, turning it into one of the tournament’s viral off-court moments.
DJOKOVIC ESCAPES FIRST-ROUND SCARE
Djokovic survived a stern first-round test against Mpetshi Perricard as he battled past the Frenchman in four sets to reach the second round of the men’s singles event. The 39-year-old recovered from a slow start to secure a 5-7, 7-5, 6-1, 6-4 victory on Court Philippe-Chatrier.
Djokovic initially struggled against Perricard’s booming serve and the strong home support behind the young Frenchman. Perricard became the first French player in 14 years to take a set off Djokovic in the opening round at Roland Garros after breaking serve at 5-5 in the first set.
However, the Serbian great showed his trademark resilience in the second set. After missing several break-point opportunities, Djokovic finally converted at 6-5 following a thrilling 17-shot rally to level the match. From there, momentum shifted completely in his favour as he dominated the next two sets with his superior experience and consistency.
The victory also marked Djokovic’s record 82nd Grand Slam main-draw appearance, taking him past Roger Federer.
Meanwhile, Aryna Sabalenka is set to begin her campaign in the clay-court major against Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro. Sabalenka will once again be aiming to win her maiden Roland Garros title after falling short in previous campaigns on clay. Last year, she reached the final, where American star Coco Gauff defeated her.
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