Novak Djokovic began his Australian Open campaign with a dominant 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 win over Pedro Martinez, marking his 100th match victory at Melbourne Park. The 10-time champion became the only player with 100 or more wins at three Grand Slams. Djokovic now eyes Roger Federer's record of 102 Australian Open triumphs.
Novak Djokovic returned to the Australian Open on Monday, delivering a clinical performance to defeat Spain's Pedro Martinez 6-3, 6-2, 6-2. The 38-year-old Serbian, a record 10-time champion at the event, struck 49 winners to Martinez's 14, showcasing his baseline control and mobility despite recent fitness concerns.
This victory marked Djokovic's 100th at Melbourne Park, tying him with Roger Federer for the most Grand Slam main-draw appearances at 81. He is now the sole player to achieve 100 or more wins at the Australian Open, Wimbledon, and Roland Garros, per the Infosys ATP Win/Loss Index.
Reflecting on the milestone, Djokovic said: “What can I say? I like the sound of it… Centurion is pretty nice. It’s nice to be a centurion in these numbers. History making is a great motivation, particularly in the last five, 10 years of my career.” He added: “I was very fortunate early on to encounter some people that taught me and guided me to play the long shot with my career: not to burn out too quickly, and try to have the longest career possible. I’m blessed to still be playing at this level.”
Djokovic highlighted a highlight-reel forehand winner, smiling as he paid homage to Gael Monfils: “I actually thought of Monfils. That’s why I smiled... When I did that, he crossed my mind first. I was like, Now I know how he feels.” On his physical form, he noted: “It felt good tonight... Performance-wise, the feeling on the court, it was great. I couldn’t ask for more.”
Advancing to the second round for the 19th time, Djokovic will face Italian qualifier Francesco Maestrelli, who beat Terence Atmane in five sets for his first major main-draw win. A potential semi-final against Jannik Sinner looms in Djokovic's pursuit of an 11th title.
Elsewhere, Casper Ruud advanced with a 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 win over Mattia Bellucci, securing his 50th major victory. The 12th seed, expecting a daughter, said: “It was a perfect start... I have to thank Maria for letting me [come] in the first place.” He faces Jaume Munar next.
