Djokovic Booking Berth in Australian Open Third Round
Australian Open: Novak Djokovic Advances Past Maestri in Style
The Australian Open, tennis’ first Grand Slam event of the year, is well underway in Melbourne. In the second round of the men’s singles on day 22, the world No. 4, Novak Djokovic, faced the hottest new player on tour, Francesco Maestri. Despite Maestri’s upset in the qualifying round, he was no match for the 21-time Grand Slam champion.
Djokovic dismantled the Italian, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2, to reach the third round for an 18th consecutive year at Melbourne Park.
“It was a solid performance,” Djokovic stated post-match. “I played well from the baseline and served well too. It’s great to be back in the third round.”
Djokovic’s Australian Open Record Speaks for Itself
- This year marks Djokovic’s 21st appearance at the Australian Open.
- He has won the tournament 10 times, most recently in 2023.
- With 18 third-round appearances, only two players (Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer) have reached this round more often in Melbourne.
Can Djokovic Make History in 2026?
At age 38, Djokovic is chasing his 25th Grand Slam singles title, which would surpass Nadal’s and Federer’s record of 20. To do so, he must win the Australian Open, as he currently leads that count with 10 wins.
Djokovic is also seeking to become the oldest No. 1 player in history, surpassing Federer’s record of 36 years and 315 days. To achieve this, he needs to reach the final or win the title in Melbourne.
Looking Ahead to the Third Round
Djokovic’s third-round opponent will be either Botic van de Zandschulp (NED) or Xi Zechen (CHN), depending on their match outcome.
The Other Notable Wins of the Day
- Fifth seed Lorenzo Musetti (ITA) defeated 28th seed Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP) 6-4, 6-3, 6-4.
- Eighth seed Ben Shelton (USA) triumphed over 30th seed Sebastian Korda (USA) 6-2, 6-2, 7-5.
- 15th seed Karen Khachanov (RUS) defeated 26th seedдионis Shapovalov (CAN) 7-6(2), 6-4, 6-3.
- 16th seed Jiri Lehecka (CZE) defeated 20th seed Alejandro Davidovich Fokina (ARG) 6-3, 6-4, 6-0.
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Did You Know?
- Djokovic aims to become the oldest No. 1 player in history.
- He has won 10 Australian Open titles, more than any other player.
- Djokovic holds the record for most Australian Open match wins with 101.
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What’s Next for Djokovic?
Will Djokovic win his 25th Grand Slam title in 2026? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this article on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for more exclusive tennis content!