Novak Djokovic Secures Historic 100th Australian Open win in clinical Opener
The ten-time champion celebrated his record-breaking “Triple 100” milestone by brushing aside Spain’s Pedro Martínez on Monday night 6-3, 6-2, 6-2, simultaneously tying Roger Federer for the most Grand Slam main draw appearances in tennis history.
Novak Djokovic, Australian Open 2026 | © PsNewz
Novak Djokovic reached a towering landmark in his storied career on Monday, recording his 100th career match win at the Australian Open with a 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 victory over Pedro Martínez. The world number one was in imperious form from the outset, firing over thirty winners in the first two sets alone while utilizing pinpoint serving and his signature elastic defense to leave the Spaniard without answers.
With this victory, Djokovic becomes the only player in the history of the sport to record 100 or more wins at three different Grand Slam tournaments: the Australian Open, Roland-Garros, and Wimbledon. He also stands alone as the only player to have at least 95 wins at all four majors.
Stepping onto Rod Laver Arena for his 81st Grand Slam appearance, Djokovic officially tied Roger Federer and Feliciano Lopez for the most major appearances by a man in the Open Era. Despite the weight of history on his shoulders, the top seed looked physically rejuvenated, even providing a viral highlight when he jumped off the ground to slap a 176-kilometer-per-hour forehand winner.
I actually thought of Monfils. That’s why I smiled.
When asked about the acrobatic shot in his press conference, he admitted it was an homage to a fellow veteran: “I actually thought of Monfils. That’s why I smiled. There’s nothing much to talk. In addition to that because I connected well, and I didn’t hit too many of those in my career, but Gael did. We’ve seen him so many times in highlights. When I did that, he crossed my mind first. I was like, Now I know how he feels (smiling). Yeah, it felt good, definitely.”
Looking ahead, Djokovic is set to face Italian qualifier Francesco Maestrelli in the second round. However, the scheduling of these marquee matches remains a point of contention. With local hero Alex de Minaur and Carlos Alcaraz often vying for the same prime-time slots on Rod Laver Arena, a “logjam” appears inevitable.
When questioned on his preference to remain on the tournament’s main stage, Djokovic was direct: “I think you know the answer, right? You should ask the tournament organizers that question. I’m not one making the schedule. You know what my preference is.”
For now, the mind and body appear to be in harmony for the defending champion, who has just played his first match in 2026. Reflecting on his physical state for the fortnight ahead, he concluded: “It felt good tonight. Let’s see how it’s going to feel in a few days’ time. Performance-wise, the feeling on the court, it was great. I couldn’t ask for more. Obviously a great serving performance. Just overall felt really good on the court that has made me feel good on it for so many times throughout my career. So let’s see what comes my way in few days’ time.”
