The 2023 French Open’s second day featured numerous exciting moments, top seeds advancing, some shocking upsets, and even a bit of controversy. As the event progresses, let’s examine the three most significant stories that stood out on this action-packed day.
#1 The Novak Djokovic controversy
Following a straight-set victory against Aleksandar Kovacevic, world no. 3 Novak Djokovic sparked controversy by writing a politically charged message on the camera. His message referenced the ongoing turbulence in Kosovo, which gained independence from Serbia in 2008, but is still unrecognized by the latter country. Djokovic expressed his support for Kosovo remaining part of Serbia and called for an end to the violence occurring in the region.
#2 Felix Auger-Aliassime and Petra Kvitova stumble in French Open first round
While many top seeds advanced to the second round of the tournament, 10th seeds Felix Auger-Aliassime and Petra Kvitova were not as fortunate. Auger-Aliassime lost in straight sets to Italian veteran Fabio Fognini, while Kvitova was defeated by Italy’s Elisabetta Cocciaretto. Other competitors, such as Veronika Kudermetova and Belinda Bencic, also experienced surprising losses in the first round.
#3 Elina Svitolina wins first Grand Slam match after giving birth
Elina Svitolina returned to Grand Slam action after welcoming her daughter Skai in October last year. She claimed victory in her first match by defeating last year’s French Open semifinalist Martina Trevisan. Svitolina’s husband, Gael Monfils, is also set to compete later in the week, marking his return to Grand Slam competition as well since the 2022 Australian Open.
