Wang makes it to AO third round

Noble Novak

Novak Djokovic dropped a service game for the first time in this Australian Open and then didn't lose another point against Francesco Maestrelli, advancing to the third round with a 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 win.

It was Djokovic's 399th win in a Grand Slam singles match, leaving the 24-time major just one more to be the first player ever to reach 400.

The former world No 1, who won his first match by the same comprehensive scoreline, said: "Similar feeling on the court of generally positive."

The fourth seed did not play a warm-up tournament and said his longer off-season was paying off.

"I'm really happy I'm able to play this way, considering the lack of competitive matches for more than two months," the 38-year-old said.

"It's all been positive so far, positive signs."

The break of serve, in the sixth game of the third set Thursday, was almost like Djokovic was doing a rehearsal for later matches. He followed a second serve to the net but then missed the volley to give it up.

It stung the 38-year-old Djokovic, a noted perfectionist. He broke Maestrelli at love in the next game to take a 5-2 lead, smacking the last ball into the net after the Italian, ranked No 141, hit a groundstroke long.

Djokovic held at love in an eight-point roll to finish things off. He's in Australia seeking an 11th title at Melbourne Park and a 25th major overall, which would make him the most decorated tennis player of all time.

"I didn't know much about him until yesterday," Djokovic said of the 23-year-old Maestrelli, who advanced through qualifying to make his Grand Slam main draw debut. "Nevertheless, respect is always there. I don't underestimate anyone.

"He's got a big serve. He's got a big game. He's lacking experience on the big stage but he's got the game to go high."

In the third round, Djokovic will meet Van de Zandschulp, who beat Shang 7-6 (6), 6-2, 6-3.

Djokovic is well known for his sometimes unusual preparations, which include hugging a Brazilian fig tree in Melbourne's botanical gardens.

"That is my oldest friend here in Melbourne," said the Serb, who has won 10 Australian titles, more than anyone in history.

"He has been there to heal my wounds and give me company.

"We have a friendship going over 20 years."