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Novak Djokovic surpassed Roger Federer’s all-time record for the most major singles matches played as he reached the Australian Open third round.<\/b><\/p>\n
The 37-year-old was made to work in his 430th Grand Slam singles match but he emerged triumphant, beating qualifier Jaime Faria 6-1 6-7 (4-7) 6-3 6-2.<\/p>\n
The win gives Djokovic sole ownership of the all-time record for most Grand Slam singles matches played among men and women, and takes him past former rival Federer, who played his last major match at Wimbledon in 2021.<\/p>\n
“I love this sport. I love competition,” Djokovic said when asked about the milestone. <\/p>\n
“I try to give my best every single time. It’s been over 20 years that I’ve been competing in Grand Slams at the highest level.<\/p>\n
“Whether I win or lose, I will always leave my heart out on the court. I’m just blessed to be making another record.”<\/p>\n
The victory also meant the Serb became the first man over the age of 30 to reach 150 Grand Slam singles wins.<\/p>\n
Djokovic can make further history still in Melbourne – win the title and he would claim a 25th major, moving him clear of Australia’s Margaret Court as the sole leader of all-time Grand Slam singles titles.<\/p>\n
The seventh seed, who has three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray in his coaching box, will face Czech 26th seed Tomas Machac in the third round.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n