Paris, May 25 -- 24-time Grand Slam champion Serbian icon Novak Djokovic survived an opening round scare to secure a come-from-behind win over local star Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in the first round of the French Open on Sunday night.

Djokovic beat Giovanni 5-7, 7-5, 6-1, 6-4 to book his second round spot and broke the record with his 82nd appearance in the men's singles main draw at the Grand Slams, surpassing legend Roger Federer (81). He improved his record in the first round to 80 wins and two losses, losing a Grand Slam opener as far as the 2006 Australian Open, as per ATP's official website.

In their maiden ATP head-to-head clash, Djokovic struggled with the Frenchman's serve and made some errors, which affected his rhythm. Giova...