Record hunter Djokovic mows down Maestrelli in Melbourne

World No. 4 Novak Djokovic made another statement in his bid for a record 25th Grand Slam title after cruising past Italian qualifier Francesco Maestrelli at the Australian Open on Thursday.

In sunny conditions on Rod Laver Arena, the 38-year-old Serb hit 19 winners in his 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 second round victory.

Djokovic has impressively started his quest for a record extending 11th Australian Open title having backed up his straight-sets romp over Pedro Martinez in the first round.

"I didn't know about him (Maestrelli), but I don't underestimate anyone," said Djokovic, who clinched his 101st victory at the Australian Open in two hours and 15 minutes.

The 23-year-old Maestrelli had won his first match at a grand slam after beating France's Terence Atmane in the first round.

The heavy-hitting Maestrelli fought gamely against the odds before being outclassed by Djokovic, who mustered his wealth of experience to thwart break points with clutch serving.

Djokovic, garbed in a green shirt, continued to defy his advancing age with astounding athleticism and he will next face Botic van de Zandschulp of the Netherlands in the third round.