MELBOURNE: Novak Djokovic continued his smooth progress at the Australian Open on Thursday, brushing aside Italian qualifier Francesco Maestrelli 6-3 6-2 6-2 to book his place in the third round, while women’s champion Madison Keys also advanced after a brief scare.
The fourth seed, chasing a record-extending 11th Melbourne Park crown and a 25th Grand Slam title, never needed to reach top gear as he controlled the second-round encounter from start to finish. Djokovic broke early in the opening set and quickly asserted his authority, exploiting his experience against the 23-year-old world number 141.
“I didn’t know much about him until a few days ago,” Djokovic said. “But the respect is always there. He’s got a big serve and a big game, just lacking a bit of experience. I think he can go far.”
At 38, Djokovic showed few signs of slowing down as the victory marked his 399th Grand Slam match win and his 101st at the Australian Open, leaving him just one win shy of Roger Federer’s record in Melbourne. He will next face Botic van de Zandschulp.
Earlier, reigning women’s champion Madison Keys steadied herself after a second-set wobble to overcome Ashlyn Krueger and continue her title defence.
