French Open: Djokovic to face wild card Herbert, Nadal draws Zverev

French Open: Djokovic to face wild card Herbert, Nadal draws Zverev

Defending champion Novak Djokovic will play wild card Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the first round of the men's singles at next week's French Open.

World number one Djokovic, 37, who defeated Casper Ruud in straight sets in last year's final, will be bidding for a record-extending 24th grand slam title at Roland Garros.

Frenchman Herbert, 33, is currently 143 in the world rankings is better known as a doubles specialist, having won four grand slam doubles titles.

Women's world number one Iga Swiatek will launch the defence of her French Open crown against a qualifier or lucky loser in the opening round.

Former world number one Rafael Nadal, bidding for his 15th men's singles title at Roland Garros, has been handed a tough draw as he will face German fourth seed Alexander Zverev.

The Spaniard is currently ranked only 276th in the world, and this is likely his last appearance at the tournament before retiring.

World number two Jannik Sinner will play American Christopher Eubanks and two-time grand slam winner Carlos Alcaraz, a semi-finalist at Roland Garros in 2023, faces a qualifier or lucky loser.

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