'Absolutely no reason': Novak Djokovic's shock call to break tennis tradition

Novak Djokovic has questioned whether line judges should be on the court at all after his latest French Open victory, suggesting tennis had the technology to do away with them.

The Serbian superstar breezed past Columbia’s Daniel Galan with a 6-0 6-3 6-2 victory that saw him through to the top 16 at Roland Garros, even helping sweep the court during a rain delay.

'THAT’S SAVAGE': Tennis world erupts over 'brutal' Rafa Nadal display

‘OUR TRUE QUEEN’: Ash Barty photo sends fans into frenzy

But the World No.1, who defaulted from the US Open in September after hitting a lineswoman in the neck with a ball hit in frustration, said the time had come for tennis to reconsider the role of the on court officials.

“With all due respect for the tradition and the culture we have in this sport, when it comes to people present on the court during a match, including line umpires, I really don’t see a reason why every single tournament in the world, in this technologically advanced era, would not have what we had during Cincinnati and New York,” Djokovic said.

“The technology is so advanced right now, there is absolutely no reason why you should keep line umpires on the court. That’s my opinion.

“Of course I understand technology is expensive, so it’s an economical issue and a question mark.

“But I feel like we are all moving towards that, and sooner or later there is no reason to keep line umpires.

“Yes, ball kids, of course, ball person, yes - but line umpires, I don’t see any reason why anymore, to be honest.

“Maybe you can tell me if there is any significant reason why we should keep them other than tradition we had and have in this sport.”

Djokovic then joked about his US Open default, suggesting further use of technology would mean “I would probably have less chances to do what I did in New York.”

Novak Djokovic storming through French Open

The 33-year-old was rarely extended by his 153rd-ranked opponent and even found time to help out with court sweeping duties when the match was interrupted by rain.

Djokovic, like 12-time champion Rafa Nadal, has reached the last 16 without the loss of a set although things will toughen up with powerful Russian Karen Khachanov up next.

The 33-year-old Serb won the first set in 28 minutes and when he broke for a 2-0 lead in the second set a rare "triple bagel" looked a distinct possibility.

But Galan, a lucky loser from qualifying, got on the board with a forehand winner which brought loud cheers from the small crowd on Court Philippe Chatrier.

With heavy rain falling and the roof sliding slowly across, Djokovic ordered play to be halted after Galan slipped on the muddy baseline.

After more clay had been added to improve the slimy surface, a laughing Djokovic offered a hand with sweeping duties before resuming his day job with the roof closed.

After that, the outcome was never in doubt although Galan did make the Serb work up a sweat with some courageous tennis.

Djokovic had to save four break points in a competitive third set before completing victory.

With AAP/Martyn Herman

Click here to sign up to our newsletter for all the latest and breaking stories from Australia and around the world.