During a spectacular opening of one of the most anticipated matches of Roland-Garros 2025, Novak Djokovic created the surprise by sending a provocative message to the media and Italian supporters before its semi-final against the world number one Jannik Sinner. With the intensity that characterizes it, the words of the Serbian legend brought up the tension before this thrilling duel on the clay of Paris. Just as surprising was the unexpected reaction of Sinner, who left the supporters and analysts speechless in Italy and elsewhere, preparing the field for an electrifying duel.

Djokovic, 38, triple winner of Roland-Garros, is used to making a sensation before the big games. At a press conference on June 5, 2025, a few hours before his match against Sinner, he addressed the Italian media and supporters with a daring declaration: “I know that Jannik is the Chéri de Italie and that the public will be behind him, but I thrive in these moments. In Roland-Garros, I built my inheritance and I am ready to show the world that I am always the king of clay. This declaration called into question the meteoric ascent of Sinner and recalled the unprecedented list of Djokovic, which has 101 victories in Roland-Garros and 51 semi-finals in Grand Chelem. His remarks sparked a frenzy on social networks. Italian supporters supported Sinner, while others admired Djokovic’s confidence.

Sinner, known for his calm and concentration, reacted in a way that surprised everyone. Rather than bickering, the 23 -year -old Italian star responded calmly and with philosophy: “Novak’s words do not change my approach. Tennis is a question of respect, and I respect it as one of the greatest. I let my racket talk about itself. His refusal to be fooled, combined with quiet confidence, surprised his fans. Publications on X reflected this feeling, a writing user: “Sinner’s maturity is unreal. He does not allow himself to be killed by Djokovic’s mind games! Others in Italy have expressed a mixture of pride and surprise in the face of Sinner composure, especially given his recent domination over Djokovic, after winning their last four confrontations, including the Masters of Shanghai 2024 and the Six Kings Slam.

The preparation of this semi-final is influenced by many factors. Sinner, with a series of 19 consecutive Grand Slam victories, was unbeatable on clay, not conceding any set on the way to the semi-finals. Djokovic, meanwhile, aims at his 25th Title du Grand Slam, a record, after a difficult victory against Alexander Zverev (4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4) in the quarterfinals. The contrast between Djokovic’s aggressive discourse and the measured response of Sinner has only increased the tension. Analysts predict a tactical battle that could be articulated around the coverage of Djokovic and the incessant aggressiveness of sinner in the background.

This duel is more than a simple match; It’s a generational confrontation. The provocative message of Djokovic underlines his refusal to give in to the new guard, while the calm reaction of Sinner testifies to his desire to challenge legend. While Roland-Garros 2025 reaches its peak, the world of tennis is impatiently waiting to see who will emerge victorious and if Djokovic’s words will turn against him or offer a new historic triumph.