Melbourne, Australia: Novak Djokovic marked another historic milestone at Melbourne Park, recording his 100th Australian Open victory with a dominant straight-sets win over Spain’s Pedro Martinez.
The 10-time Australian Open champion delivered a serving masterclass on Rod Laver Arena, closing out the match 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 to continue his pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam singles title.
A Serving Clinic From the Serb
Djokovic’s performance was built on near-flawless serving. Across the two-hour contest, the world No. 4 dropped just five points on serve, winning an astonishing 93 percent of points behind his first serve while landing 77 percent of them in play.
The 38-year-old produced eight service games to love, lost only a single point in each of the second and third sets, and fittingly sealed the match with his 14th ace of the night.
Former Grand Slam doubles champion Mark Woodforde described Djokovic’s serving as “supreme” and “exceptional,” though the Serbian great himself was typically measured in his assessment.
“I served very well tonight,” Djokovic said. “It’s important to start the tournament the right way and send a message to yourself and to your opponents.”
A Century in Melbourne
The victory made Djokovic a centurion at the Australian Open, adding to his 100-plus win tallies at Wimbledon and Roland Garros. During his post-match interview, highlights from his 2005 Australian Open debut were played on the big screen, prompting smiles from the veteran.
“I won’t reflect too much now,” Djokovic said. “That will come later, when I put the racquet aside and sip a cocktail on the beach.”
He will face Italian qualifier Francesco Maestrelli in the second round.
History Still Driving the Hunger
Despite his decorated career, Djokovic made it clear that the motivation to chase history remains strong.
“Once I realised I had the chance to create history, especially in the last five or ten years, it inspired me even more,” he said. “I’m grateful I was guided early in my career to take the long-term view and take care of my body and mind.”
Other Results From Day Two
Elsewhere in the men’s draw, Alex de Minaur opened his campaign with a commanding win and reiterated his belief that he belongs among the tournament contenders. Andrey Rublev, Casper Ruud, Tommy Paul, and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina all advanced comfortably.
The biggest upset of the day came as Jiri Lehecka exited early, falling in straight sets to French qualifier Arthur Gea, who now sets up a second-round meeting with former champion Stan Wawrinka.
