French Open: Novak Djokovic takes a medical timeout for a toe blister in a victory over Moutet

Novak Djokovic overcomes blister, wins French Open match, enjoys nighttime bike ride through Paris.

Novak Djokovic dealt with a blister on his big left toe that required a medical timeout in the third set, then was one point from being forced to a fourth, before closing out a 6-3, 6-2, 7-6 (1) victory over Corentin Moutet at the French Open on Thursday (May 29, 2025).

Djokovic said it took nearly an hour for post-match treatment, including draining blood from his toe, which he called “not really a pleasant process.” But he added that he has “plenty of time to recover and get ready” before his next match on Saturday and doesn't think he'll have any trouble moving forward.

The result put Djokovic in the third round at Roland-Garros for the record 20th time — not even Rafael Nadal managed that.

Two more wins, and Djokovic will get to the tournament's quarterfinals for the 16th consecutive year. In 2024, though, he withdrew before playing in that round after tearing the meniscus in his right knee during the fourth round and needing surgery.

Djokovic has won three of his men's-record 24 Grand Slam titles in Paris.

Against the left-handed Moutet, a Frenchman, Djokovic got broken in the opening game at Court Suzanne-Lenglen, and the crowd roared. But soon enough, Djokovic was in control. It wasn't until 2-all in the third set that some trouble arose.

Djokovic, who went on a nighttime bicycle ride in the center of Paris on Wednesday, slid into a forehand and held up, then hopped with all of his weight on his right foot. He stepped gingerly to the sideline and requested a visit from a trainer, who treated and taped the problematic big toe.