Novak Djokovic has launched his 2026 season with a commanding performance at the Australian Open, securing a landmark 100th victory in Melbourne while setting his sights on an even greater prize: becoming the oldest men's grand slam champion in tennis history.
A Masterclass in Melbourne
The Serb's campaign began in emphatic style on Monday night at Rod Laver Arena. Djokovic dispatched Spain's Pedro Martínez 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 in a display of enduring class. The very first point, a 17-stroke rally capped with a forehand winner, set the tone for an effortless evening. This win not only marked a perfect start to his 22nd year competing in grand slams but also saw him join an elite club, having now achieved 100 match wins at three different majors: Wimbledon, Roland Garros, and the Australian Open.
Merely by taking to the court, Djokovic matched significant records. He tied Roger Federer's mark of 21 main draw appearances in Melbourne and levelled the all-time record of 81 grand slam appearances, shared by Federer and Feliciano López. At 38 years old, his movement and anticipation remain astounding, dismantling his opponent's defence with precise serving and powerful forehands.
The Quest for Longevity and Legacy
This victory reinforces Djokovic's status as a contender, but the ultimate test lies ahead. Last season, he reached the semi-finals of all four majors—a phenomenal feat—but fell at that hurdle each time, appearing worn down against the tour's fiercest rivals like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. His mission now is to sustain that peak level deep into a two-week tournament, aiming to surpass the record currently held by Ken Rosewall, who won the 1972 Australian Open at 37.
The atmosphere in Melbourne signalled a shift in the champion's public perception. Once considered the disruptor of the Federer-Nadal era, Djokovic is now embraced as the tour's revered elder statesman. Rod Laver Arena was united in its support, a stark contrast to the mixed receptions of his past. In a lengthy on-court interview, he credited his longevity to early career guidance. "I was taught to play the long shot in my career," Djokovic said, "to take care of my body and mind to have as long a career as possible."
Veterans' Day at the Australian Open
Monday proved to be a celebration of enduring champions. Earlier, Stan Wawrinka, aged 40, became the second-oldest man to win a singles match at the Australian Open. The Swiss star, who will retire at season's end, fought back to beat Serbia's Laslo Djere 5-7, 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(4).
"I know I'm not as good as I was before. That's normal, I'm getting old," Wawrinka admitted. "But I'm still happy with what I'm doing, always trying to push my own limit." His victory, alongside Djokovic's milestone, highlighted a day where experience and legacy took centre stage in Melbourne.
Off the court, Djokovic has opted for focus, stepping away from the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) he co-founded to concentrate entirely on his remaining time in the sport. As the 2026 Australian Open progresses, all eyes will be on whether the greatest champion of his generation can defy time one more time.
