2026 Australian Open – Djokovic served with full firepower and advanced to the second round
Djokovic sets new records almost every time he steps on the court, which is the reward for his longevity in his career. This year’s Australian Open is his 81st appearance in the main draw of a Grand Slam, tying the record jointly held by Roger Federer and Feliciano Lopez.
Making his first appearance of the new season after 72 days of absence from official matches, the 24-time Grand Slam champion was almost airtight on the serving end, and as the night went on, his serving condition became even better.
In the whole match, Djokovic scored 41 points out of 44 first-serve points, and the first-server scoring rate in the deciding set reached 100%. Coupled with 14 aces and 49 winning points, he gave a dominant performance that also delighted the enthusiastic Australian fans at the scene.
Martinez, ranked 71st in the world, had his share of highlights, including a couple of brilliant net volleys and winners, but he was unable to get or convert any break points and could barely contain his fiery opponent on Djokovic’s favorite court.
After missing two break points, Djokovic relied on his serve to win the first set; in the second set, his scoring rate on the second serve was nearly perfect, reaching 96.5%. Entering the third set, the 38-year-old veteran was already at ease and steadily heading towards the “100” milestone.
This is the perfect start to the new season for Djokovic, but he also knows that there are many challenges ahead. The Olympic gold medalist is expected to face Jakub Menchik – who upset Djokovic in last year’s Miami Masters final – in the round of 16.
