Ten times Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic, and two-times champion Naomi Osaka, have advanced to the third round of the tournament in Melbourne.
The seventh seed Serb had to fight hard for his victory, as he overcame Jaime Faria of Portugal 6-1 6-7 (4-7) 6-3 6-2.
The win saw the 37-year-old set the record for the most Grand Slam singles matches (430) played
“I love this sport, I love competition.
I try to give my best every single time. It’s been over 20 years that I’ve been competing in Grand Slams at the highest level.
Whether I win or lose, one thing is for sure, I will always leave my heart out on the court.
The Grand Slams they’re the pillars of our sport.
I’m just blessed to be making another record,” remarked Djokovic about reaching the milestone.
Meanwhile, Japan’s Osaka also advanced to the third round, for the first time since 2023 after giving birth to her child.
She came from behind from one set to beat Czeck’s Karolina Muchova 1-6, 6-1, 6-3.
She described the win as a “sweet revenge” after Muchova was victorious in their last two meetings.
“Honestly it took everything I felt like I left everything I had on the court.
Last year was really tough for me. I felt like I could have done better.
Just to be back on these courts, on these arenas and playing in front of you guys, it makes my whole year,” remarked Osaka.
She’ll face Belinda Bencic of Switzerland, while Djokovic will battle Czech Tomas Machac on Friday.
