Francesco Maestrelli's Dream Match: 'Seeing My Name Next to Novak Djokovic's Is Crazy'

Francesco Maestrelli Breaks Through to Face Idol Novak Djokovic in Australian Open Second Round

© Photo de Daniel Pockett Getty Images via AFP

Arthur Millot

le 21/01/2026 à 14h08

1 min to read

Djokovic Novak Maestrelli Francesco

Before the 2026 Australian Open, Italian Francesco Maestrelli (ranked 141st), 23 years old, had gone nine Grand Slam tournaments without ever reaching the main draw.

But in Melbourne, the script finally changed, and after winning four matches, he is now into the second round.

Djokovic–Maestrelli: A Dream Come True

But that's not all, as the announcement came: he will face Novak Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion and living tennis legend.

"It's incredibly emotional, really. I've dreamed of matches like this for a long time, and for me, it was a dream to play in the main draw of a Grand Slam for the first time.

I'm super excited and happy. I've seen Novak play millions of times. I was told there was a chance I'd face him, and that it would be one of the biggest thrills of my life."

'It's Crazy to See His Name Next to Mine'

He adds: "It's crazy to see his name next to mine in an official match. I'll do my best to win: I know it's incredibly tough, but I'll try.

He's one of those players who has virtually no weaknesses. Preparing for a match like that is incredibly difficult.

I'll try to give it everything. I'm tall (6'5"), and I'll try to serve as hard as possible, because Novak will probably be superior in rallies. We'll see what happens."