Goffin gives Djokovic stern test of credentials

Novak Djokovic was given a stern reminder that winning a maiden French Open title this year will not be easy after coming through a testing first-round encounter against determined Belgian David Goffin last night.

The top seed and last year’s runner-up is looking to complete his set of grand slam titles in the Roland Garros fortnight, but his opening opponent provided a stiff challenge.

Goffin largely matched the world number one stroke for stroke throughout an entertaining encounter and Djokovic had to produce some of his best tennis to claim a 7-6 (7/5) 6-4 7-5 win in two hours and 13 minutes.