Novak Djokovic has once again etched his name into the history books at the Australian Open, securing his 100th career victory at the tournament with a commanding win over Pedro Martinez. This monumental achievement solidifies his unparalleled dominance at Melbourne Park, a venue where he has lifted the trophy a record ten times. The Serbian superstar’s relentless march through the early rounds continues to captivate the tennis world, as he builds momentum in his quest for an 11th Australian Open crown.
While Djokovic’s historic win is the headline, the narrative of the tournament’s fifth day is also shaped by the emergence of a new challenger. Italian qualifier Francesco Maestrelli, ranked 141st in the world, has fought his way through the draw to earn a dream showdown with the legend. Maestrelli, who defeated Terence Atmane in the previous round, now faces the ultimate test on one of the sport’s grandest stages. For the young Italian, this match represents the pinnacle of his career so far, a moment he has described as ‘one of the most exciting things of my life’.
The upcoming clash between the established king and the aspiring prince is laden with intrigue. Maestrelli, a self-professed admirer of Daniil Medvedev and a passionate supporter of Pisa Calcio, enters the match with nothing to lose and everything to gain. He has reportedly received advice from fellow Italian Jannik Sinner on how to approach the daunting task. The match is seen by some, like commentator Francesco Elia, as a ‘gift’ for the young player—a chance to test his skills against the very best in a high-pressure environment.
For Djokovic, the match against Maestrelli is another step in his meticulous campaign. His victory over Martinez was a clinical display, showcasing the form that has made him nearly unbeatable in Melbourne. As the tournament progresses, all eyes are on potential later-round matchups, including a highly anticipated clash with Jannik Sinner. The scheduling of these marquee matches, including when Djokovic and Sinner will play their opening rounds, is a constant topic of discussion for fans and pundits alike.
The story of the 2026 Australian Open thus far is a classic tale of legacy meeting ambition. Djokovic continues to build upon his historic legacy with each match, while Francesco Maestrelli embodies the dream of every qualifier: to share the court with an icon. As the world watches, this third-round encounter promises to be more than just a match; it is a celebration of tennis history in the making and a glimpse into the future of the sport.