Novak Djokovic knows he must save energy if he wants to make history at the Australian Open. The 38-year-old is chasing a record 25th Grand Slam title, which would move him ahead of Margaret Court.
After struggling with injuries at major tournaments last year, Djokovic has focused on finishing matches quickly in the early rounds. So far, that plan is working. He dropped just seven games in a straight-sets win over Italian qualifier Francesco Maestrelli, following another comfortable victory in the first round.
Djokovic said he respected Maestrelli’s game and believes the young Italian has the talent to rise in the rankings. The Serb has now never lost a Grand Slam match to a qualifier, boasting a perfect 37-0 record.
If Djokovic beats Botic van de Zandschulp in the third round, it will be his 400th Grand Slam singles win — a milestone no other player has reached. He could face Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals, while world number one Carlos Alcaraz is only a possible opponent in the final.
