History unfolded at Melbourne Park as Novak Djokovic joined tennis immortality, claiming his 400th Grand Slam win and matching Roger Federer’s Australian Open record of 102. The 10-time champ prevailed 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(4) over gritty qualifier Tallon Griekspoor, storming into the last 16.
Griekspoor’s bold play—racing to 3-0 in set two post-medical timeout—rattled briefly. Djokovic slipped later, taking his own break, yet saved set points at 5-6 to clinch the tiebreak. His first set featured clinical play: 12 winners to seven errors.
This 18th fourth-round appearance in 21 tries highlights his stranglehold. ‘Solid start without the hype,’ Djokovic shared. ‘Last year’s lesson: stay measured in majors. These young challengers push me, but I’m rooted.’
No sets lost, next up Mensik or Quinn en route to possible Sinner semis. ‘Alcaraz, Sinner are elite,’ he observed, ‘yet on this fabled court, the ball’s spin offers openings.’ Djokovic’s resilience signals another title charge, eyeing Slam record extension.