Serbia’s Novak Djokovic kicked off his Australian Open campaign in ominous fashion, cruising past Pedro Martinez 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 to reach the second round. With 24 majors already won, the 38-year-old is on a mission for No. 25, a mark that would etch his name alone atop the record books.
On Rod Laver Arena, Djokovic unleashed a serving masterclass – 14 aces, perfect fault-free delivery, and point-win rates that suffocated Martinez (93% first serve, 85% second). The Spaniard, serving two aces but six doubles, faced constant pressure from Djokovic’s probing returns.
Djokovic pounced on breaks relentlessly, converting five of 12 chances while Martinez converted none. The point differential – 98-57 – mirrored a contest Djokovic controlled wire-to-wire.
This isn’t mere survival; it’s supremacy. Djokovic, twice a finalist here recently despite injury woes, now eyes an 11th crown amid rising stars like Sinner and Alcaraz. ‘The body feels good,’ he noted, signaling peak form.
Martinez showed grit in long exchanges but lacked the weapons to unsettle the GOAT. Djokovic’s variety and depth overwhelmed, a blueprint for deeper runs.
History awaits in Melbourne, where Djokovic owns the narrative. Round two is next, but this statement win reaffirms why he’s the benchmark. The road to 25 is paved.