Novak Djokovic knows that if he is to create history at the Australian Open, he will need to conserve his energy.
The Serbian legend is seeking a 25th Grand Slam title to take him one clear of Margaret Court’s all-time singles record.
The 38-year-old has spoken about needing to protect his body for the latter stages of the majors, having been hindered by injury in three of his four Slam semi-finals in 2025.
A leg injury caused an early end to Djokovic’s Australian Open semi-final last year, while he was hampered by a hip injury at Wimbledon and fatigue at the US Open.
Spending as little time on court in the first few rounds is key – and Djokovic has made a strong start.
He dropped only seven games in a 6-3 6-2 6-2 victory over Italian qualifier Francesco Maestrelli in the second round on a warm Melbourne afternoon.
Djokovic beat Spain’s Pedro Martinez by the same scoreline on Monday, marking the first time he has not dropped a set in the first two rounds at Melbourne Park since 2023.
“The respect is always there and I didn’t underestimate him. He’s got a big serve and a big game, only lacking a bit of experience.
“He’s got the game to go far and high in the world rankings and I wish him that.”
Djokovic has never lost a Grand Slam match to a qualifier or a lucky loser, and his 37-0 record against them is the best of any man in the Open era.
