Novak Djokovic made light work of Francesco Maestrelli to book his place in round three of the Australian Open.

Djokovic, who is in the hunt for a record-setting 25th grand slam title, and his 11th crown in Melbourne, triumphed 6-3 6-2 6-2 over the Italian qualifier.

The Serbian broke early in the opening set, setting the tone for a dominant display in which he dropped just one game.

"I didn't know much about him until a few days ago – it happens more often than not these days," Djokovic said of Maestrelli.

"The respect is always there and I didn't underestimate him. He's got a big serve and a big game, only lacking a bit of experience.

"He's got the game to go far and high in the world rankings and I wish him that."

Next up for Djokovic is a tie with Botic van de Zandschulp.

37 - Novak Djokovic (37-0) remains undefeated in Men’s Singles matches at Grand Slams against qualifiers and lucky losers – Djokovic has the most wins of any undefeated player in the Open Era in such matches. Unblemished.#AusOpen | @AustralianOpen @atptour pic.twitter.com/u58kErTwVU

— OptaAce (@OptaAce) January 22, 2026

Djokovic will be joined in the third round by world number five Lorenzo Musetti, who downed compatriot Lorenzo Sonego 6-3 6-3 6-4, and last year's Australian Open semi-finalist Ben Shelton, who beat Dane Sweeny in straight sets.

Hubert Hurkacz, fresh from leading Poland to United Cup glory, was dumped out by world number 80 Ethan Quinn.

Data Debrief: Djokovic closes in on another milestone

Djokovic has now collected 399 grand slam match wins. Should he prevail against Van de Zandschulp, he will become the first player to win 400 major singles matches.

The 38-year-old also preserved his perfect record against qualifiers and lucky losers at the slams, having now gone 37-0 against such players.

Djokovic joined Shelton in becoming just the second man to reach at least the third round at all of the last 10 majors. Jannik Sinner can also achieve that feat should he win later on Thursday.