MELBOURNE, Jan 19: Novak Djokovic began his bid for a record 25th Grand Slam title with a 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 win over unseeded Spaniard Pedro Martinez in the first round of the Australian Open on Monday, with the Serbian allaying pre-tournament concerns about his fitness with a scintillating display.
The 38-year-old Djokovic missed a tune-up event in Adelaide and had a short training session on Sunday, raising questions about his preparation for the major tournament where he has a record 10 wins, but he comfortably achieved his 100th win at Melbourne Park.
The perfect performance meant Djokovic reached 100 wins in three of the four Grand Slams and 95 at the US Open.
“What can I say? I like the sound of that. Being a centurion is very nice. It feels great to be a centurion,” Djokovic said as a montage of his best moments in Melbourne was shown on the big screen at Rod Laver Arena.
“Making history is a big motivator, especially in the last five to 10 years of my career. When you’re finally in a position to make history, it just makes you want to play your best tennis even more, and that’s what I’ve been doing.”
“I was very fortunate to meet people early in my career who taught me and guided me to play long shots, to not burn out too quickly, to take care of my body and mind, and to build my career as long as possible.
“I’m happy to be playing at this level and it would be a dream come true to win here again tonight.”
A tricky start against first-time opponent Martinez turned into a routine workout as Djokovic took control with a break and never let up to take the first set under the bright lights of the main show court.
Djokovic, who last played in Athens in November when he won his 101st career title, broke early and almost missed a beat on the way to closing out the second set when he snatched a fierce cross-court winner.
The spotlight has largely shifted to reigning Melbourne champion Jannik Sinner and world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz, but Djokovic reminded the pair of the menace they were with a strong third set and some sublime tennis to win in his favorite hunting ground.
“This is definitely my favorite court and the court that has given me so much,” added Djokovic, who hopes to return when he faces Francesco Mastrelli in the Italian qualifier.
“I always try to give back. I hope you enjoy playing tennis.”