Novak Djokovic is gaining momentum in his bid to win a historic 25th Grand Slam title at the Australian Open after easing into the third round.
The 38-year-old former world No.1 swept aside Italy’s Francesco Maestrelli 6-3, 6-2, 6-2, in what was a largely dominant performance. Djokovic, who has now won 101 matches at Melbourne Park in his career, dropped serve only once in the match (in his penultimate service game) and won 86% of his first service points. Furthermore, he converted six out of his 16 break point opportunities.
“I served better in the first match,” Djokovic told reporters afterwards.
“It felt like two different tournaments playing at night and day today, particularly with the wind that I think has been blowing this year more than any other year that I’ve been playing here in Australia.
“Obviously, I have to adjust to that and adapt to a different opponent with a big serve. But overall it’s good. I’m pleased with the way I’m moving and hitting the ball.”
One noticeable area of Djokovic’s latest match was the level of aggression in his shot-making. His fastest serve registered at 221 (km/h), which was quicker than what fifth seed Lorenzo Musetti produced during his 6-3, 6-3, 6-4 win over Lorenzo Sonego.
“I always try to work with purpose. I had a longer off-season, like the off-season before this one. When I have more time, then I obviously try to look at my game and different elements that I can really improve.” Djokovic explained.
“Otherwise,what’s the point of competing and coming out and not really trying to be better than you were the season before?
“That’s the kind of mentality I try to nurture. It’s been allowing me to play at the highest level at this age.”
“I’m really happy I’m able to play this way, considering the lack of competitive matches for more than two months. It’s all been positive so far, positive signs. But I’ve got to keep it up.”
At Grand Slams, Djokovic now has a 37-0 record against qualifiers and lucky losers, which is the most wins of any undefeated player in the Open Era.
Awaiting him in the next round will be Botic van de Zandschulp, who beat 27th seed Bandon Nakashima in the first round and China’s in the second. The Dutchman beat Djokovic last year in Indian Wells, and in 2024, he knocked Carlos Alcaraz out of the US Open.
