Novak creates a slice of history

OZ OPEN: SURPASSES FEDERER'S MATCH TALLY IN SLAMS

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Novak Djokovic said yesterday he was "blessed" and "very thrilled" after surpassing Roger Federer for the most Grand Slam singles matches played on his way into the Australian Open third round.

The 37-year-old faced stiff resistance from fearless Portuguese qualifier Jaime Faria before winning 6-1, 6-7 (4/7), 6-3, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena to set up a clash with Czech 26th seed Tomas Machac.

Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka, in-form Coco Gauff, former Melbourne winner Naomi Osaka and a rampant Carlos Alcaraz were all victors on a rainy day four.