Novak Djokovic delivered a commanding performance at the Australian Open on Sunday evening, dispatching Spain's Pedro Martinez 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 in a thoroughly one-sided encounter.
The Serbian maestro claimed his 100th main-draw victory in Melbourne with the triumph.
The win also secured Djokovic a remarkable distinction in the record books.
He became the first male player to achieve at least 100 victories across three different Grand Slam surfaces.
Novak Djokovic beat Pedro Martinez 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 on Sunday evening
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The ten-time champion at Melbourne Park took control from the outset, never allowing his 71st-ranked opponent any meaningful foothold in the contest.
It proved a typically efficient display from the 24-time major winner.
Prior to his opening-round triumph, Djokovic had grown exasperated with speculation suggesting he might withdraw from the tournament due to a neck complaint.
The 38-year-old was spotted abandoning a public practice session after merely 12 minutes, prompting widespread concern.
However, the Serbian explained he had already completed a two-hour training stint with Daniil Medvedev on Rod Laver Arena beforehand, followed by additional gym work.
Novak Djokovic was not happy about rumours about his injury status
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"People made a story about it, and then a picture of him getting a massage and chaos ensues," Djokovic told Blic.
"There must be some drama," he added, lamenting the media's preference for controversy over constructive coverage.
During the match itself, a commentator on beIN Sports made a remark that drew immediate criticism from viewers.
As Djokovic led 3-1 in the second set with Martinez serving at 30-15, the broadcaster suggested that the Spaniard's best chance would be if the Serbian "tears an adductor on one of those slides."
"It might be just what he needs," the commentator added.
The observation proved particularly jarring given Djokovic's well-documented injury struggles, including the muscle tear that forced his retirement against Alexander Zverev in last year's semi-final at the same venue.
The Serbian, however, continued untroubled and closed out proceedings in straight sets.
Novak Djokovic breezed into the next round of the Australian Open after beating Pedro Martinez
|REUTERS
Following his victory, Djokovic engaged in a rather unconventional on-court interview that left spectators thoroughly entertained.
When shown highlights of his younger self removing his shirt, the conversation took an amusing turn towards his physique.
"I wish I could bring back that body to be honest," Djokovic remarked. "Not for the beach, not for the looks, but for the functionality on the court."
When the interviewer's microphone momentarily drifted away, the ever-alert Serbian quipped: "Can I keep on speaking? I'm speaking about my body so I get excited."
He also recalled his 2005 debut, when his mother telephoned to question his decision to dye his hair before facing Marat Safin.