MELBOURNE, Jan. 19 (Xinhua) -- World number four Novak Djokovic started his quest for a record 25th grand slam title with a scintillating straight-sets victory over Pedro Martinez on Monday at the Australian Open.
On the last match of day two, Djokovic unfurled several outrageous shots to flummox 71st-ranked Martinez 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 in two hours at Rod Laver Arena.
"Tonight's performance was definitely great. I cannot complain about anything," said Djokovic, who won his 100th match at the Australian Open.
The Serb has the equal most grand slam titles with Australia's Margaret Court.
But he has not lifted a major trophy since the 2023 US Open, having been surpassed by younger rivals Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
The 38-year-old made a statement and showed no signs of rust in his first match in more than two months as he clearly enjoyed returning to the court where he has won the title a record 10 times.
Djokovic produced flamboyant shotmaking that defied his advancing age, notably a powerful forehand crosscourt winner early in the third set, having leaped off the ground.
The Serb will play Francesco Maestrelli in the second round. ■
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