Novak Djokovic untroubled at French Open as fans hit by alcohol ban

NEW DELHI: Novak Djokovic advanced to the last 32 of the French Open for the 19th consecutive year on Thursday, as tournament organizers implemented a ban on alcohol in the stands to address the increasing number of complaints from players regarding disrespectful and unruly spectators.

The defending champion showcased his dominance by firing 43 winners against Spain's Roberto Carballes Baena, ranked 63rd, en route to a commanding 6-4, 6-1, 6-2 victory.

Djokovic, who is aiming to secure a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title, will face either France's Gael Monfils or Italy's 30th seed Lorenzo Musetti in the next round.

The three-time champion boasts an impressive 19-0 record against Monfils and has emerged victorious in four out of five encounters with Musetti.

However, the Italian posed a significant challenge to the Serb at the French Open in 2021, winning the first two sets before being forced to retire due to injury in the deciding set.

"It was a difficult match against Roberto. He hit a lot of very good and precise shots," said Djokovic.

"The last game of the first set I played really well and started to play at a higher level. At the end of the match I was then playing very well."

David Goffin, a Belgian tennis player, alleged that someone in the crowd spat chewing gum at him during the tournament. This incident highlighted the unruly conduct of some spectators at the event. As a result, the organizers implemented a range of initiatives aimed at curbing such disorderly behavior.

"Alcohol has been allowed in the stadiums until now but that's over," tournament director Amelie Mauresmo told reporters.

Despite the changes, alcoholic beverages such as beer will continue to be available for purchase from mobile vendors throughout the grounds.

Mauresmo said fans will be ejected if they throw something at a player and that "umpires have tighter, even more precise instructions on keeping the crowd under control".

(With AFP inputs)