Novak Djokovic has secured his place in the Australian Open third round on Wednesday with a challenging 6-1, 6-7(4), 6-3, 6-2 victory over 21-year-old qualifier Jaime Faria.
Despite being tested by a second consecutive Grand Slam debutant, Djokovic demonstrated his experience and resilience, continuing his pursuit of a record 25th major grand slam title and 100th tour-level crown.
The Serbian started strong, taking the first set comfortably and breaking early in the second. However, Faria, unbothered by the occasion, responded by winning four consecutive games and forcing a tie-break. The Portuguese player used his serve and forehand effectively to level the match, prompting Djokovic to recalibrate his strategy.
“I think I responded very well in the third and particularly fourth set, the way I ended the match,” Djokovic said. “He was playing lights-out tennis towards the end of the second set and beginning of the third. I had to weather the storm.”
With a renewed focus and tactical adjustments, Djokovic regained control, facing just one break point in the final two sets. He won 90% of his first-serve points during that period, closing out the match in three hours.
Third Round Showdown with Tomas Machac
Djokovic will next face 26th-seeded Tomas Machac, who overcame Reilly Opelka in a five-set battle earlier on Wednesday. The Serbian and Machac have split their previous two encounters, with their most recent meeting in 2024 at the Geneva Open semifinals going Machac’s way.
This victory also marked Djokovic’s 430th Grand Slam singles match, breaking Roger Federer’s record for the most played in tennis history among men and women. Reflecting on the milestone, Djokovic said, “I love this sport. I love competition. It’s been over 20 years of playing Grand Slams at the highest level. Whether I win or lose, I always leave my heart out on the court.”
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At 37, Djokovic aims to become the oldest player in the Open Era to win a Grand Slam, surpassing Ken Rosewall’s record set in 1972.
Alcaraz Cruises Past Nishioka
Meanwhile, Carlos Alcaraz delivered a commanding performance in a 6-0, 6-1, 6-4 win over Japan’s Yoshihito Nishioka. The 19-year-old Spaniard showcased his versatility and precision, losing only five games in a one-hour, 22-minute match.
“I think the less time you spend on the court in the early rounds, the better, especially physically,” Alcaraz said. He highlighted his improved serving, a focus during his preseason training, as a key factor in his dominance. Alcaraz hit 14 aces and did not face a single break point, extending his perfect record against left-handed opponents in Grand Slams to 8-0.
Nishioka, despite the one-sided nature of the match, maintained his composure and humor, drawing applause from the crowd during light-hearted moments.
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Next Steps for Alcaraz
Alcaraz will face Portugal’s Nuno Borges in the third round. Borges advanced with an upset victory over 27th-seeded Jordan Thompson. The Spaniard, ranked No. 3 in the world, is on track to potentially become the youngest man in history to complete a career Grand Slam.
The Australian Open continues to highlight a mix of established legends and emerging talent, delivering thrilling tennis and unforgettable moments in Melbourne.
