Australian Open 2026, Day 2 wrap: Djokovic hits 100 in Melbourne, Swiatek and Gauff survive opening tests
&imwidth=600&imheight=450&format=webp&quality=medium "Australian Open 2026, Day 2 wrap: Djokovic hits 100 in Melbourne, Swiatek and Gauff survive opening tests")
Australian Open 2026, Day 2 wrap: Djokovic hits 100 in Melbourne, Swiatek and Gauff survive opening tests Photograph: (AFP)
A record-chasing champion begins strongly in Melbourne as top stars move into the next round, while others face tough battles and emotional moments on a dramatic opening day.
Novak Djokovic began his Australian Open 2026 campaign in perfect style, cruising into the second round with a straight-sets win and reaching a special milestone in Melbourne. Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff also moved forward, though both had to work harder than expected on the opening day.
Djokovic starts title hunt with ease
Djokovic looked calm and in control as he defeated Spain’s Pedro Martinez 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena. The victory was his 100th match win at the Australian Open, a tournament where he has already lifted the trophy a record 10 times. The 38-year-old Serbian is chasing a historic 25th Grand Slam title, which would move him ahead of Margaret Court for the most in tennis history.
Wawrinka, Medvedev and de Minaur move on
Stan Wawrinka showed his fighting spirit once again, winning a tough four-set match against Laslo Djere. Playing his final season before retirement, the 40-year-old Swiss said his passion is still strong, but he needs to manage his body carefully.
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Swiatek tested, Gauff steady
In the women’s draw, Swiatek had a tricky start against China’s Yuan Yue. The Polish star won 7-6, 6-3, but admitted she was rusty early on and still had things to improve. “I had some ups and downs, but I’m happy to get through,” she said.
Gauff beat Kamilla Rakhimova 6-2, 6-3, but was not fully satisfied with her performance. The American said winning matters most, even if the game is not perfect. She will next face Olga Danilovic.
Anisimova shines, surprises exit
Amanda Anisimova impressed with a strong 6-3, 6-2 win to begin her run. Jessica Pegula and Mirra Andreeva also advanced.
Former champion Sofia Kenin was knocked out, while young Filipina star Alexandra Eala lost after a tough three-set match. She said the huge support from fans was overwhelming but special.
