Djokovic surpasses Federer record in victory at Melbourne

Novak Djokovic surpassed Roger Federer’s record for the most major singles matches played by reaching the third round of the Australian Open.

The 37-year-old participated in his 430th Grand Slam singles match and emerged victorious, overcoming qualifier Jaime Faria with scores of 6-1 6-7 (4-7) 6-3 6-2.

The win gives Djokovic sole possession of the all-time record for the most Grand Slam singles matches played by both genders, exceeding former opponent Federer, who played his last major match at Wimbledon in 2021.

“I find pleasure in this sport.” “I take pleasure in competing,” Djokovic remarked when asked about the milestone.

“I strive to give my best effort every single time.” I have participated in Grand Slams at the highest level for over 20 years.

“Whether I win or lose, I will consistently put forth my best effort on the court.” “I genuinely feel lucky to be making another album.”

The Serb became the first guy over 30 to win 150 Grand Slam singles titles with the victory.

Djokovic has the chance to make more history in Melbourne – should he claim the title, he will achieve his 25th major, placing him above Australia’s Margaret Court as the sole leader in total Grand Slam singles championships.

The seventh seed, alongside three-time Grand Slam winner Andy Murray in his coaching staff, will face Czech 26th seed Tomas Machac in the third round.

Norwegian sixth seed Casper Ruud experienced the most significant upset in the men’s draw, falling 6-2 3-6 6-1 6-4 to 19-year-old Czech player Jakub Mensik.

Position 48 in the world Following Djokovic and Murray’s 2006 Wimbledon victory, Mensik and 18-year-old Brazilian qualifier Joao Fonseca became the first adolescents to defeat top-10 players at the same Grand Slam. On Tuesday, they shocked ninth seed Andrey Rublev.

Meanwhile, German second seed Alexander Zverev achieved a solid 6-1 6-4 6-1 victory over Spain’s Pedro Martinez to set up a third-round match against Britain’s Jacob Fearnley.