Francesco Maestrelli's journey at Majors has been anything but straightforward.
The Italian had failed to reached the main draw in nine consecutive tournaments before finally winning three matches in Melbourne.
Prendetevi 2 minuti per gustarvi tutti i 𝑽𝑬𝑵𝑻𝑶𝑻𝑻𝑶 𝑨𝑪𝑬 di Francesco Maestrelli 😮💨💥#Tennis #AusOpen #AO2026 #Maestrelli pic.twitter.com/cUih6CanlU
— Eurosport IT (@Eurosport_IT) January 19, 2026
The reward? His first Major victory and the second-round clash with the 24-time Major champion Novak Djokovic! Francesco fired 28 aces against Terence Atmane for his first ATP win, marking a defining moment in his young career.
For Maestrelli, the prospect of sharing the court with the most accomplished player in history represents the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. He grew up watching Novak dominate the biggest stages.
Now, seeing his name next to the legend's in a Major match feels almost surreal. The 23-year-old is fully aware of the scale of the challenge ahead. However, the Italian knows he will need to play with freedom and courage.
Francisco Maestrelli, Australian Open 2026© Stream screenshot
Francisco is a tall player armed with a powerful serve, having fired 28 aces against Atmane. He will look to lean on his biggest weapon while embracing the rare opportunity to test himself against a player widely regarded as the most complete competitor the sport has ever seen.
Regardless of the outcome, Maestrelli has already written a memorable chapter in Melbourne. He transformed years of near-misses into a breakthrough moment that few players ever get to experience.
Of course, Novak will be the clear favorite on Thursday morning. The veteran played a high-quality match against Pedro Martinez and will look forward for more against his inexperienced rival.
Novak Djokovic, Australian Open 2026© Stream screenshot
"It's incredibly emotional, really. I have dreamed of matches like this for a long time, and for me, it was a dream to play in the main draw of a Major for the first time. I never imagined I would win a match in the fifth set in my debut on this scene.
I'm super excited and happy. I have seen Novak play millions of times. They told me there was a chance I would face him, and it will be one of the greatest emotions of my life. It's crazy to see his name next to mine in an official match.
I will try my best to win: I know it's incredibly complicated, but I will try. He is one of those players who has virtually no weaknesses. Preparing for a match like that is incredibly difficult. I will try to give it everything I have, but it will be incredibly tough.
I will try to give it everything I have. I'm tall, and I will try to serve as hard as possible, because Novak is probably superior in rallies. We will see what happens," Francesco Maestrelli said.
