NOVAK DJOKOVIC took the handbrake off as he raced into the third round of the French Open on another rain-soaked afternoon in Paris yesterday.

The defending champion said he had “low expectations” going into Roland Garros following a disappointing season and he lived down to them in an unspectacular first-round win over Pierre-Hugues Herbert.

But Djokovic looked more like his relentless old self as he pummelled Spain’s Roberto Carballes Baena 6-4 6-1 6-2 in round two.

Under the roof of Court Philippe Chatrier, Djokovic lost his serve in the first game of the match before adjusting to the cool conditions.

A key to Djokovic’s success has always been his ability to perform under pressure.

After leveling the score at 1-1 and missing four break point opportunities at 2-1, he raised his game to break Baena when the Spaniard served to stay in the set.

On a day when the French Open called for more respectful behaviour from fans, Djokovic also requested the umpire to keep the crowd quiet during certain moments of the tie.

This prompted a chorus of whistles and chatter from spectators, but Djokovic responded with a smile as he took control of the second set.

He continued to dominate the rallies, hitting winners and breaking serve five more times, setting up a third-round match against either France’s Gael Monfils or Italy’s 30th seed Lorenzo Musetti.

“Firstly thanks to the crowd,” said Djokovic, who will face Gael Monfils or Lorenzo Musetti in the third round.

“Thank you for being here. I think it’s been a difficult few days for the fans. There’s been so much rain. But thanks for coming out to support.

“It was difficult against Roberto. He has a lot of quality, a lot of precision …

“I’m happy. I’m happy with my performance today.”

Carballes Baena, a very capable clay-courter, could only smile at the time as Djokovic – from 4-4 in the first set – won 14 of the final 17 games in a statement victory.