Novak Djokovic Reaches Australian Open Third Round of the 2026 Australian Open in convincing fashion, showcasing the experience, consistency, and physical resilience that have made him one of the most dominant players in tennis history. The 38‑year‑old Serbian star continued his quest for a record‑extending 25th Grand Slam title with an authoritative straight‑sets triumph over Italian qualifier Francesco Maestrelli, setting the tone for another deep run at Melbourne Park.
Match Recap: Djokovic vs. Maestrelli
Djokovic entered the second round at the Australian Open determined to make a statement, and he did exactly that. Facing 23‑year‑old Italian qualifier Francesco Maestrelli, Djokovic delivered a clinical performance:
- Score: 6–3, 6–2, 6–2
- Key factors: aggressive serving, deep groundstrokes, mental composure
Despite dropping a single service game — his first of the tournament — Djokovic quickly regained control of rallies and dictated points from the baseline. His precision, movement, and match tempo left Maestrelli with few answers, particularly in the second and third sets where Djokovic consistently broke serve to seal the win.
The former world No. 1’s commanding performance was a reminder of his elite Grand Slam pedigree, and he did so with the confidence of a champion with decades of experience at the highest level.
Historic Significance of the Victory
This win was more than just progress in the draw — it was a landmark moment in Djokovic’s career:
📌 399th Grand Slam Match Win
With this victory, Djokovic recorded his 399th win in Grand Slam singles matches, bringing him just one victory away from becoming the first player in history to reach 400 Grand Slam match wins. This milestone underscores his longevity and unrivalled success over two decades on the biggest stages.
📌 100+ Wins at the Australian Open
Djokovic’s earlier first‑round victory over Pedro Martínez marked his 100th match win at the Australian Open, a rare feat that places him among the all‑time leaders in Slam wins across surfaces. Observers note that he now holds 100+ match wins at three different Grand Slams, an accomplishment unmatched in tennis history.
📌 Potential Historic Title Run
If Djokovic continues his title chase at Melbourne Park, he could secure an 11th Australian Open crown and the 25th major singles title overall — further cementing his status as the most decorated male tennis player in the Open Era.
Beyond the Numbers: Djokovic’s Form & Preparation
Despite not playing a lead‑up tournament before the Open and arriving with a lighter competitive preparation, Djokovic’s performance against Maestrelli demonstrated that his off‑season training and fitness regimen remain elite, even at age 38.
In an unusual but widely reported anecdote, Djokovic was also seen maintaining some pre‑match rituals — including visits to a favoured fig tree in Melbourne’s botanical gardens, which he affectionately described as a long‑standing source of comfort and grounding during his many appearances in Australia.
These rituals, while quirky, highlight the psychological elements and routines that top athletes often employ in high‑pressure environments like Slam events.
Next Up: Third Round Outlook
With his third‑round berth locked in, Djokovic now looks ahead to his next opponent. Post‑match reports indicate he will face either Botic van de Zandschulp of the Netherlands — who himself advanced after a strong performance — or China’s Shang Juncheng, depending on the outcome of their second‑round clash.
Van de Zandschulp, a solid baseliner with Grand Slam experience and tenacity on court, could offer a stern test. Djokovic’s tactical versatility and deep repertoire will be key in navigating this matchup, should he meet the Dutchman.
For Djokovic, the third round is more than a next step in the draw — it’s an opportunity to add to his monumental legacy and keep pace with both historical records and the evolving landscape of elite men’s tennis.
Context Within the Tournament
Djokovic’s smooth progress comes amid an exciting Australian Open, with several storylines capturing public interest:
🎾 Veteran Breakthroughs
Swiss veteran Stan Wawrinka made headlines at age 40 by reaching the third round himself after a grueling five‑set victory — the first player of his age to achieve that at a major in decades.
🎾 Defending Champion Performance
Defending men’s champion Jannik Sinner also cruised into the third round with a decisive win over wildcard James Duckworth, maintaining the momentum that makes him one of the event’s top threats.
🎾 Attendance & Atmosphere
Daily attendance figures have been high at Melbourne Park, and the tournament has featured compelling matchups, rising talents and heartfelt historical moments that underscore the Open’s status as a cornerstone of the tennis season.
Djokovic’s Legacy and Broader Impact
Djokovic’s journey at the 2026 Australian Open not only highlights his skill but reinforces the narrative of longevity and resilience that defines his career. At an age when many elite athletes retire or decline, Djokovic continues to set benchmarks for excellence and longevity.
His pursuit of a record 25th major is not just about accumulating titles — it reflects evolving standards in professional sports where physical conditioning, mental fortitude, and adaptability are as crucial as technical mastery. Djokovic’s presence at Melbourne Park inspires both tennis fans and aspiring players around the world.
What Fans and Analysts Are Saying
Across social media and tennis forums, fans have celebrated Djokovic’s continued excellence:
- Users highlight his inspiration for younger players who have grown up watching him compete across eras.
- Observers note the rarity of a player achieving centuries of wins across multiple Grand Slams, a testament to Djokovic’s consistency.
- Analysts stress that his experience gives him an edge in pressure moments, a key factor in later rounds of major tournaments.
Conclusion: A Champion Still at His Peak
Novak Djokovic reaches the Australian Open third round not just with a routine win, but with historical context, strategic dominance, and the poise of a veteran champion who remains a defining figure in tennis. As the 2026 Australian Open unfolds, all eyes will remain on Djokovic — a player who continues to redefine what it means to excel at the highest levels of sport.
With potential milestones like his 400th Slam match win and a 25th major title on the horizon, Djokovic’s journey in Melbourne this year is not just about advancement — it’s about legacy.
