NewKerala.com

Djokovic Dominates at Australian Open, Eyes Historic 400th Slam Win

Novak Djokovic delivered a commanding performance to defeat Francesco Maestrelli in straight sets, advancing to the Australian Open's third round. His efficient play included winning 86% of his first-serve points, showcasing sharp form. The victory puts him on the cusp of becoming the first player ever to achieve 400 Grand Slam match wins. His path forward includes a match against Botic van de Zandschulp and a potential semifinal clash with defending champion Jannik Sinner.

Key Points: Djokovic Advances at Australian Open, Nears 400 Grand Slam Wins

  • Straight-sets victory over qualifier
  • One win from 400 Grand Slam match wins
  • Next faces Botic van de Zandschulp
  • On track for potential Sinner semifinal
2 min read

Australian Open: Djokovic marches to third round with win over Maestrelli

Novak Djokovic cruises into the third round, defeating Francesco Maestrelli. The Serbian legend is one win from a historic 400th Grand Slam match victory.

"Djokovic needed seven set points and captured the 47-minute opener first set. - ATP Official Website"

Melbourne, January 22

The Serbian tennis legend and 24-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic continued his fine run in the Australian Open, marching to the third round with a win over Francesco Maestrelli on Thursday.

Djokovic, fresh off his 100th Australian Open win, defeated Francesco 6-3, 6-2, 6-2, continuing his pursuit for the first Grand Slam title since the US Open 2023.

The 38-year-old looked sharper and more effective than ever on the court, since sealing his 101st tour-level title in Athens last year in November, and his ball striking was clean, as per ATP's official website.

Djokovic needed seven set points and captured the 47-minute opener first set. He was well in control of his baseline rallies and serving, having won 86 per cent (43/50) of his first-serve points. Facing two break points in the opening service game of set two, the legend managed to draw forehand return errors from the 23-year-old qualifier.

With this win, Djokovic is just one win away from securing 400 victories across Grand Slams and will become the first-ever player in history of the sport to complete 400 Grand Slam match wins. His next opponent would be Botic van de Zandschulp, who delivered a shocking defeat to tennis legend at ATP Masters 1000 event in Indian Wells, and the duo have a 1-1 record head-to-head.

This is Djokovic's 21st Australian Open appearance, and he is scheduled for matches against Italy's Lorenzo Musetti and defending champion Jannik Sinner in semifinal, who is eyeing a hat-trick of title wins here at Melbourne.

Mussetti beat a compatriot 6-3, 6-3, 6-4 and matched his career best effort at the Australian Open and will meet the 31st seed Stefanos Tsitsipas or Czech Tomas Machac.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
His dominance is just unreal. 86% first-serve points won? That's practically unplayable. The next match against van de Zandschulp will be interesting given their history.
P
Priya S
As much as I admire his skill, I do wish we saw more of the younger players breaking through. The same faces winning everything can make the sport a bit predictable sometimes. Still, you can't deny his greatness.
V
Vikram M
The real test will be Sinner in the semis. That's the match I'm waiting for! Djokovic looks sharp, but the young guns are hungry. Should be a great tournament ahead.
R
Rohit P
Watching him play is like a masterclass. His focus and strategy are next level. Hope he gets the title and creates more history. 🇷🇸
M
Michael C
The stat about becoming the first to 400 Grand Slam match wins is mind-blowing. He's redefining what's possible in tennis longevity. Pure legend.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50