Novak Djokovic launched his Australian Open title defense with authority, overwhelming Pedro Martinez 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 in a one-sided first-round clash. The 38-year-old legend, gunning for a record 25th Grand Slam, looked every bit the favorite under the Melbourne lights.
Rod Laver Arena bowed to Djokovic’s mastery from the first ball. His serve stats were impeccable: 14 aces, no double faults, and staggering win rates on both first and second deliveries. Martinez, error-prone with six double faults, couldn’t breach the Serb’s baseline fortress.
Five breaks from 12 chances highlighted Djokovic’s opportunism, while the Spaniard squandered every break point. The totals – 98 points for Djokovic, 57 for Martinez – painted a mismatch, yet the world No. 4’s efficiency was the real story.
Beyond the stats, this was vintage Djokovic: relentless pressure, tactical brilliance, and mental steel. He’s chasing not just his 11th Aussie title but immortality, surpassing Margaret Court in the all-time list.
Young pretenders Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz present the biggest threats, their recent major hauls a warning sign. Djokovic dismissed concerns post-match, emphasizing rhythm over rust.
Martinez battled hard in rallies, earning respect, but couldn’t overcome the gap. Djokovic advances to round two, where his 97% win rate at Melbourne continues. The chase for 25 is alive, and Djokovic is dialed in.