Novak Djokovic Scripts History At AO26; Records A Century Of Wins At Australian Open

Last Updated:January 19, 2026, 18:44 IST

Novak Djokovic claimed his 100th Australian Open win, defeating Pedro Martinez 6-3, 6-2, 6-2. Chasing Grand Slam No.25, he now faces Francesco Maestrelli next at Rod Laver Arena.

Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open 2026 (AP)

Novak Djokovic wasted no time reminding Melbourne why this stage still feels like home.

Chasing an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam, the Serb opened his Australian Open campaign with a clinical 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 dismissal of Spain’s Pedro Martinez on Monday, barely breaking sweat in a performance that felt both efficient and ominous.

It was Djokovic’s 100th Australian Open win. Smiling as he addressed Rod Laver Arena, the 38-year-old soaked it in.

“Great to be back once again, definitely my favourite court," he said.  “Centurion is pretty nice. I always give my best on the court — history-making is a great motivation. I am blessed to be still playing at this level."

Ranked fourth and arriving with questions after pulling out of a January warm-up event due to fitness concerns, Djokovic answered them swiftly.

His last competitive match had come back in early November, but there was no visible rust. He moved smoothly, defended relentlessly and picked his moments to accelerate.

Next up is Italian qualifier Francesco Maestrelli, but the bigger picture looms large.

Hunting For Grand Slam No.25 

Djokovic has been stuck on 24 Grand Slam titles since lifting the US Open in 2023. He reached the Melbourne semi-finals last year, only to retire injured against Alexander Zverev.

Still, history keeps following him. Monday’s win was also his 81st Grand Slam appearance, drawing him level with Roger Federer and Feliciano Lopez for the most all-time in men’s singles.

(with agency inputs)

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