Novak Djoković defeated Botic van de Zandschulp 6–3, 6–4, 7–6 in the second round of the Australian Open on hard court, confirming his status as the overwhelming pre-match favourite with odds of 1.07 to van de Zandschulp's 8.23. The Serbian top seed controlled the match from the outset, securing the first two sets with relative comfort before van de Zandschulp mounted a more competitive challenge in the third, forcing a tie-break that Djoković ultimately resolved. The victory represents a straightforward progression for the defending champion and maintains his unbeaten record in early-round encounters at Melbourne Park this fortnight. Djoković's next assignment will pit him against a qualifier or lower-seeded opponent as he pursues another Grand Slam title.