Novak Djokovic etched another milestone into tennis history by surpassing Roger Federer for the most Grand Slam matches played, reaching 430 on Wednesday with a challenging second-round win at the Australian Open. The Serbian star overcame 21-year-old Portuguese qualifier Jaime Faria in a four-set battle, triumphing 6-1, 6-7 (4), 6-3, 6-2 in a match momentarily halted by rain.
Djokovic’s latest achievement adds to an already illustrious career, marked by his 379-51 record in Grand Slam tournaments, giving him a .881 winning percentage. “Grand Slams…are the pillars of our sport. They mean everything for the history of the sport,” Djokovic remarked. “I’m just blessed to be making another record.”
This record, previously held by Federer, is the latest in a series of milestones for Djokovic, who already boasts the most Grand Slam singles titles for a man with 24, ahead of Rafael Nadal’s 22 and Federer’s 20.
As the 37-year-old Serb continues his quest for more titles, the potential achievements are staggering. A victory at Melbourne Park would secure his 25th Grand Slam title, the most by any player, and his 11th Australian Open title, equalling Margaret Court’s record. It would also make Djokovic the oldest male Grand Slam singles champion in the Open era and his 100th tour-level tournament title.
Despite his historic prowess, Djokovic’s path in this tournament has not been without hurdles. Both his matches so far have tested his mettle, with young, debutant opponents pushing him to four sets. His first-round match against 19-year-old American Nishesh Basavareddy and the second against Faria showcased the resilience of the seasoned champion.
“He was playing lights-out tennis… I had to weather the storm,” Djokovic said of Faria’s performance. “I think I responded very well in the third and, particularly fourth, (sets).”
With former rival Andy Murray now in his coaching corner, Djokovic’s campaign in Australia continues as he aims for yet another landmark in his storied career. Fans eagerly watch as he pursues a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title, cementing his status as one of the greatest in the sport’s history.
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