Andy Roddick explains why he still won’t doubt Novak Djokovic before French Open

Former US Open champion believes Novak Djokovic can still surprise everyone at Roland Garros despite a difficult clay-court season.

Novak Djokovic heads into the French Open without a single clay-court win in 2026, having suffered early defeats in Monte Carlo, Madrid and Rome. His latest setback came against Dino Prizmic at the Italian Open, after which the Serbian confirmed he would not play another warm-up event before Roland Garros.

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Despite the concerns surrounding Djokovic’s form, former world number one Andy Roddick insists he still refuses to count him out on the biggest stage. Speaking on his podcast, the 2003 US Open champion admitted that Djokovic’s unusual preparation schedule may look worrying, but history has taught him not to underestimate the 24-time Grand Slam winner.

Andy Roddick says Novak Djokovic always finds a way at Grand Slams

Roddick pointed out that Djokovic has often looked vulnerable in smaller events before suddenly producing deep runs at major tournaments. He recalled how the Serbian struggled in lead-up events last season before still reaching the latter stages of Grand Slams.

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“I promised myself I wouldn’t bet against him again, so I just can’t do it,” Roddick said. He also described Djokovic as “a part-time tennis player” who still manages to remain near the top of the ATP rankings whenever he competes.

The American also joked that Djokovic almost thrives when people begin doubting him, suggesting the Serbian uses criticism as motivation heading into major tournaments.

Roddick questions Djokovic’s decision to skip another warm-up tournament

Although Roddick defended Djokovic’s chances in Paris, he did express concern about the lack of match practice before the French Open. Djokovic has decided against returning to the Geneva Open, the same tournament he won last season before Roland Garros.

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Roddick argued that Djokovic ideally needs several matches before competing in a best-of-five-set tournament, especially at this stage of his career. He questioned whether the Serbian can continue balancing limited preparation with deep Grand Slam runs as he approaches his 39th birthday.

If Djokovic wins the French Open this year, he would become the oldest men’s singles Grand Slam champion in the Open Era, surpassing the long-standing record held by Ken Rosewall.

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