Novak Djokovic secured his 400th Grand Slam victory on Saturday, defeating Botic van de Zandschulp in straight sets (6-3, 6-4, 7-6).
However, the achievement was nearly overshadowed by a moment of frustration in the second set.
Djokovic struck a ball away that narrowly missed a ball girl’s head, sparking memories of his 2020 US Open disqualification.
Though he avoided a default, Djokovic admitted he was “lucky” and apologized for the “heat of the moment” outburst. He now faces 16th seed Jakub Mensik in the fourth round.
Switzerland’s “Stan the Man” Bids Farewell
While Djokovic advanced, 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka played his final match at Melbourne Park. The 40-year-old Swiss veteran, who will retire at the end of 2026, lost a hard-fought four-set battle to American Taylor Fritz.
Wawrinka made history this week as the oldest man to reach a Grand Slam third round since 1978. Following a standing ovation and a video tribute, he celebrated his 20-year Australian Open journey by sharing a beer on court with tournament director Craig Tiley.
