French Open Day 6 – Svitolina Slips Up Again; Zverev Hangs On; The Compelling Case Of Novak Djokovic; Edmund vs Fognini Preview

David and Catherine are back together on The Tennis Podcast to discuss yet another intriguing day at Roland Garros.

The biggest story is the defeat of Elina Svitolina. The No.4 seed was among the favourites for the title, but once again she failed to transfer her fantastic tour form to a Grand Slam. Why does this keep happening?

Svitolina was beaten by the unheralded Mihaela Buzărnescu of Romania whose remarkable ranking rise – from outside the Top-400 to inside the Top-40 in the space of twelve months – is lauded.

Much like Svitolina, Sascha Zverev has also struggled to play his best at Grand Slams. After coming through a 5-setter against Dusan Lajovic in round two, the German was pushed to the brink and forced to save a match point on Friday against Damir Džumhur.

Does it bode well for Zverev that he’s coming through these physical tests? Or does he need to be winning these matches more convincingly? David and Catherine give their thoughts.

Novak Djokovic was also a winner on Day 6, beating Roberto Bautista-Agut in a near 4-hour slugfest. It was a match in which Djokovic smashed his racquet with frustration before producing some of his trademark brilliance. In short, it demonstrated exactly why he remains such a compelling talking-point. How well is he playing? Are we expecting too much too soon from him? Catherine reveals the views of Boris Becker.

Elsewhere, why are Caroline Wozniacki and Madison Keys going so under the radar? Their straight-set victories are discussed.

Finally, just before Catherine tucks into her daily cheeseboard, there’s excitement about Edmund vs. Fognini on Saturday. Will Edmund’s steadiness be too much for Fognini’s flashiness?

There will be daily editions of The Tennis Podcast throughout the French Open, in association with Telegraph Sport. It is presented by Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport) and David Law (BBC 5 Live, BT Sport)

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.