First Time Since 1968: Novak Djokovic Overtakes Roger Federer To Script Never-Before-Seen Record
NDTV
Novak Djokovic said Wednesday he was "blessed" and "very thrilled" after surpassing Roger Federer.
Novak Djokovic said Wednesday he was "blessed" and "very thrilled" after surpassing Roger Federer for the most Grand Slam singles matches played on his way into the Australian Open third round. The 37-year-old faced stiff resistance from fearless Portuguese qualifier Jaime Faria before winning 6-1, 6-7 (4/7), 6-3, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena to set up a clash with Czech 26th seed Tomas Machac. It was Djokovic's 430th Slam contest to claim sole ownership of most singles matches played, men or women, in the Open era ahead of Federer (429) and Serena Williams (423).
No one else has played 400 or more.
"I love this sport, I love competition," said Djokovic, who is into the third round in Melbourne for a 17th straight year.
"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.
"Whether I win or lose, I will always leave my heart out on the court. I'm just blessed to be making another record.
