Novak Djokovic is on the verge of making history, securing a spot in the Miami Open final after a dominant 6-2, 6-3 win over Grigor Dimitrov. The Serbian legend is now one victory away from his 100th career singles title, a milestone achieved by only a few in tennis history.
Djokovic, who has won 99 of the 307 ATP Tour-level tournaments he has played, delivered another serving masterclass in South Florida, winning 87% of his first serves and hitting five aces.
Despite the windy conditions, the world No. 1 remained composed.
“It was very windy today, very difficult to control the ball, but I had good serves and held my nerves,” Djokovic said. “Hopefully, I can continue in the same fashion.”
With this win, Djokovic improved to 13-1 against Dimitrov, who has now lost 10 straight matches to the Serbian.
Djokovic vs. Mensik: A Battle for the Title
Djokovic’s final challenge will come against Jakub Mensik, the 19-year-old Czech sensation who stunned Taylor Fritz in a thrilling 7-6(7/4), 4-6, 7-6(7/4) victory in the semifinals.
Mensik, who struck 25 aces without breaking Fritz’s serve, won both tiebreaks to secure his first Masters 1000 final appearance.
“For me, it was a dream to play against Djokovic,” Mensik said. “But now, it’s a bit different. I am a better player now. I’m going to enjoy it.”
Djokovic and Mensik have faced each other once before, with Djokovic winning a close three-set battle in Shanghai last year.
Djokovic’s Shot at Tennis History
If Djokovic triumphs on Sunday, he will join an elite club of players with 100+ ATP titles, alongside Jimmy Connors (109) and Roger Federer (103).
“After the Olympics, I’ve been chasing my 100th title,” Djokovic said. “Hopefully Sunday, I am going to go all in.”
Adding to the excitement, Lionel Messi was in attendance for Djokovic’s semifinal match.
“Amazing to have him here, a great honor,” Djokovic said. “We were both born in 1987, so it’s nice to have him around.”
With Djokovic in top form and Mensik eager to make history of his own, the Miami Open final promises to be an electrifying showdown. Will Djokovic claim title No. 100, or will Mensik pull off the biggest win of his career?