Novak Djokovic on Saturday became the first player in tennis history to reach 400 Grand Slam match wins when he defeated Botic van de Zandschulp in straight sets to advance to the last 16 of the Australian Open in Melbourne.
Djokovic, 38, achieved the milestone at Rod Laver Arena in front of a boisterous center-court crowd during the season’s first major tournament.
The Serbian player beat the Dutch opponent 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) to extend his all-time record for most match victories at Grand Slam events.
Tournament organizers recorded that Djokovic’s 400th win added to his lead over retired Swiss star Roger Federer, who accumulated 369 Grand Slam match victories.
Statistics from the majors also showed that Serena Williams ranks third on the all-time list with 365 Grand Slam match wins.
Djokovic told on-court interviewers after the match that he was “hanging in there” following the landmark victory and his progression into the second week of the tournament.
Event officials confirmed that the straight-sets victory secured Djokovic’s place in the Australian Open round of 16 as he continues his title defense.
Match statisticians reported that Djokovic used his serve and baseline consistency to limit van de Zandschulp’s opportunities in key games during the encounter.
Australian Open organizers scheduled Djokovic’s next match in the second week, where he will seek to add to his Grand Slam win total and extend his run in Melbourne.
