Novak Djokovic racks up 100 wins at the Australian Open after defeating Pedro Martinez

Novak Djokovic added another feather in his illustrious cap in a career full of milestones when he defeated Pedro Martinez 6-3 6-2 6-2 on Monday to record his 100th Australian Open win. The Serb, aiming for his 25th Grand Slam title, already has 100 wins in the French Open as well as Wimbledon and is just 5 victories away from a 100 wins in the US Open.

“What can I say? I like ‌the sound of it – centurion is pretty nice, it’s a nice feeling to be a centurion History-making is great motivation, particularly in the last five to 10 years of my career. Once I got myself into a position to eventually make history, I was even more inspired to play the best tennis, and that’s what I’ve done. I was very fortunate early on in my career to encounter people who taught me and guided me to play the long ‌shot, not burn out too quickly, to take care of my body and mind and try to have as long a career as possible. I’m blessed ‌to be playing at this level and another win here tonight is a dream come true.”” he said after the match.

A potentially tricky start against first-time opponent Martinez turned into a ‌routine workout when Djokovic seized control with a break and never loosened his grip under the bright lights of the main showcourt to take the opening set.

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Despite ‌last playing in November ‍when he claimed ⁠his 101st ​career title in Athens, Djokovic barely missed a beat as he let rip a fiery crosscourt winner en route to breaking early and ⁠wrapping up the second set.

While the spotlight has largely swung ⁠toward reigning Melbourne champion Jannik Sinner and world number one Carlos Alcaraz, Djokovic reminded the duo of his threat with some sublime tennis to power through the third set and prevail at his favourite hunting ‌ground.

“It’s definitely my favourite court, a court that has given me so much,” added Djokovic, who will hope to return when he takes ‌on Italian qualifier Francesco Maestrelli.

“I always try to give back and I hope you enjoyed the tennis.”

(With agency inputs)