Novak Djokovic delivered a commanding performance to record his 100th Australian Open victory, defeating Spain’s Pedro Martinez in straight sets, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2. The 38-year-old world number four showcased a near-perfect serving display, dropping just five points from 57 service games across a two-hour match.
The 10-time Australian Open champion held serve eight times without losing a point, dropped only one point in each of the second and third sets, and won an impressive 93% of points behind his first serve, maintaining a 77% first-serve percentage. Djokovic capped off the match with his 14th ace of the night.
Mark Woodforde, 17-time Grand Slam doubles champion, described Djokovic’s serving as “supreme” and “exceptional,” though the Serbian star remained modest. “Tonight’s performance was great, I can’t complain about anything. I served very well,” Djokovic said.
Reflecting on reaching the 100-win milestone at Melbourne, Djokovic, who has also achieved 102 wins at Wimbledon and 101 at Roland Garros, shared video highlights from his 2005 main-draw debut during the post-match interview. He downplayed dwelling on career achievements, saying, “I won’t get caught up in my career until I’ve put the racquet aside [and am] sipping some nice cocktail on the beach.”
Looking ahead, Djokovic will face Italian qualifier Francesco Maestrelli in the second round. “It’s a nice feeling to be a centurion. History-making is great motivation,” he said. “I was fortunate early in my career to encounter people who guided me to play the long shot with my career, not to burn out too quickly, and take care of my body and my mind. I’m blessed to be playing at this level and another win is a dream come true.”
With his eyes set on a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam singles title, Djokovic’s masterful start in Melbourne sends a clear signal that he remains a dominant force in men’s tennis.
Melissa Enoch
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