Novak Djokovic began his hunt for a 25th Grand Slam by defeating Pedro Martinez in the first round of the Australian Open.
The Serbian dropped just seven games against the Spaniard to set up a second round tie against Francesco Maestrelli.
Although Djokovic is not considered the favourite for the tournament, it’s hard to rule out a player who has won the Australian Open a record 10 times.
Djokovic might have made light work of Martinez in his first round, but fans and pundits were more interested in the 24-time Grand Slam champion’s special guest in his players’ box.
Juan Mata joins Novak Djokovic’s players’ box for the Australian Open
Tennis journalist Sasa Ozmo spotted former Manchester United and Chelsea midfielder Juan Mata in Djokovic’s box during his match with Martinez.
Mata is a big tennis fan, and even attended the Australian Open in 2025, but his attendance with Djokovic seems completely out of the blue.
However, the 2010 World Cup winner has previously gone on record to explain his love for the sport and Djokovic.
In a 2015 blog, Mata wrote: “There have been a few more sporting events to follow recently, like the Australian Open, where Nole Djokovic showed how good he is, although Andy Murray had his chances too.
“This is the fifth title in Australia for the Serbian, what else can I say. He is one of my favourite tennis players. I’ve been lucky to meet him personally several times, and by the way, he is a great football fan.”
It is currently unclear whether Mata will stay inside Djokovic’s box for the entire tournament or whether this was a one-off.
Mata currently plays for Melbourne Victory, having signed for the Australian club in 2025. He’s made 10 appearances and scored one goal for the A-league side.
Novak Djokovic’s route at the 2026 Australian Open
Djokovic looks to have a fairly safe route through to the Australian Open quarter-finals, but then he could have a difficult ride.
If Djokovic finds a way past Maestrelli, he will likely play Botic van de Zandschulp in the second round of the Grand Slam.
The rangy Dutchman did knock Djokovic out of Indian Wells in 2025, but over best-of-five-sets the Serbian will be the overwhelming favourite.
Jakub Mensik, who recently won the ASB Classic, could be a tough challenger for Djokovic in the fourth round.
The latter stages are when Djokovic will likely suffer, with either Taylor Fritz or Lorenzo Musetti waiting for the Serbian in the quarter-final.
If he does manage to beat either of those top 10 players, he’ll be rewarded with a match against Jannik Sinner in the final four.
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