By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Novak Djokovic dismantled Italian qualifier Francesco Maestrelli 6-3 6-2 6-2 on Thursday to reach the Australian Open third round, continuing his quest to make more history at the Rod Laver Arena.
Djokovic has impressively started his quest for a record extending 11th Australian Open title having backed up his straight-sets romp over Pedro Martinez in the first round.
While his serve was not quite as potent as in the first round, Djokovic still won 86% of points behind his first serve, as well as saving four of the five break points he faced.
“I didn’t know much about him until a few days ago – it happens more often than not these days,” Djokovic said of world number 141 Maestrelli.
“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 faces Botic van de Zandschulp of the Netherlands next in Melbourne.
Victory over Van de Zandschulp in the third round on Saturday would be his 400th Grand Slam singles win. No other player has achieved that feat.
Djokovic cannot meet world number one Carlos Alcaraz before the final, but he could face two-time defending champion and second seed Jannik Sinner in the semis.
Meanwhile world number six Jessica Pegula overwhelmed McCartney Kessler 6-0 6-2 in just 58 minutes, while fifth seed Musetti swept past fellow Italian Lorenzo Sonego 6-3 6-3 6-4.
She will face Russia’s Oksana Selekhmeteva next – with another good friend in defending champion Madison Keys potentially waiting in the fourth round.
Elsewhere six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek showcased her class as she defeated Marie Bouzkova to reach the third round of the Australian Open on Thursday, keeping her hopes alive for a first Melbourne title.