Top seed Novak Djokovic of Serbia defeated Santiago Giraldo of Colombia 6-3, 6-2, 6-1 at the Australian Open.

The world no. 1 is in contention to win a third successive Grand Slam title.

Djokovic, bidding to become only the fifth man in the Open era to win three consecutive Grand Slam singles tournaments, needed just one hour and 45 minutes to win his 16th match on the trot in a major tournament.

“It was really important to win the first set. I am trying to be physically fit and fresh for the upcoming rounds. The longer the tournament goes, the tougher it gets,” said Djokovic.

“You can’t underestimate any opponent and Santiago is a tricky player,” said the Serb, who broke the Colombian’s serve seven times and always looked comfortable, hitting 27 winners during the match.

The defending champion is set up a third-round meeting with Nicolas Mahut.