Novak Djokovic admits major security concern amid discussions with French Open chiefs

Novak Djokovic pokes fun at Andy Murray during photoshoot

Callum Vurley

By Callum Vurley


Published: 02/06/2025

- 07:32

Having the French Open on as Paris Saint-Germain won the Champions League provided some logistical problems

Novak Djokovic has revealed that French Open security officials held discussions about keeping players on-site on Saturday night rather than allowing them to return to their hotels.

The Serbian tennis star disclosed the unusual security measures were considered due to chaos on Paris streets following PSG's historic Champions League victory over Inter Milan.


The chief of security at Roland Garros debated the unprecedented step amid concerns over player safety as celebrations erupted across the French capital after the football club's first-ever European Cup triumph.

"There was quite a debate in the locker room with the chief of security whether we should go to the hotel," Djokovic explained to TNT Sports presenters Tim Henman and Laura Robson on Sunday afternoon.

Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic revealed that French Open officials were considering keeping players in rooms

Reuters

He revealed that officials considered housing players in rooms around Roland Garros rather than risk the journey to their accommodation.

"At one point, they were discussing whether we should stay in one of the rooms somewhere around Roland Garros, because where we are staying is quite close to the Arc de Triomphe," Djokovic said.

The proximity to the famous landmark proved problematic as it became a focal point for celebrating PSG supporters.

"It was quite a scene yesterday and there was a lot of troubles on the streets. We barely made it to the hotel around 1am. It was quite an adventure I must say," Djokovic told the TNT Sports panel.

The Serbian described the challenging journey through the French capital as PSG supporters flooded the streets to celebrate their club's maiden Champions League triumph.

JUST IN: PSG hold trophy parade to celebrate Champions League win despite overnight troubles

Despite the difficulties navigating the chaotic scenes, Djokovic acknowledged the significance of the moment for Paris, stating: "Obviously it is a big thing for Paris."

PSG secured their historic 5-0 victory over Inter Milan at the Allianz Arena in Munich, with the French side establishing a commanding 2-0 lead by the first half's midway point through goals from Achraf Hakimi and Desire Doue.

READ MORE: George Russell in damning verdict on Max Verstappen manoeuvre after smash during Spanish Grand Prix

French fansThe French interior ministry said 559 people had been arrested, including 491 in Paris, which led to 320 people being placed in police custody, 254 of them in ParisReutuers

Doue struck again with 30 minutes remaining before January signing Khvicha Kvaratskhelia added a fourth after 73 minutes.

Senny Mayulu completed the rout with a fifth goal four minutes before the final whistle.

The aftermath of the match saw significant disturbances, with at least one person losing their life and police making 491 arrests as celebrations turned violent across the French capital.

LATEST SPORTS NEWS: