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Djokovic Dominates Dimitrov to Advance to Miami Open Final

Novak Djokovic showcased his exceptional skill by defeating Grigor Dimitrov, securing his spot in the Miami Open final for the first time since 2016. This victory places the Serbian star just one win away from achieving his milestone 100th ATP title.

In the semi-final match, Bulgaria’s Dimitrov initially took the lead by breaking Djokovic in the first game. However, the world number five swiftly responded by breaking back and demonstrated his dominance by winning five consecutive games to take the first set.

Djokovic, who is 37 years old, continued to capitalize on Dimitrov’s mistakes as the second set began. After a shaky start from the 14th seed, Djokovic asserted his control, ultimately winning the match with a score of 6-2, 6-3.

Expressing his satisfaction with the performance, Djokovic told Sky Sports, “It feels great to reach the final without dropping a set. I am feeling as good as I have since the Olympics last year.”

The match took place under challenging windy conditions, marking the oldest ATP Masters 1,000 semi-final in history. Although Dimitrov won the first game on Djokovic’s serve, he failed to maintain his momentum, allowing Djokovic to find his rhythm and claim the first set with ease.

A moment of controversy arose when a fan was removed for remarks that upset Dimitrov, contributing to the Bulgarian’s slow start in the second set. Despite winning three of his service games, Dimitrov could not keep pace with Djokovic, who minimize his unforced errors to just five compared to Dimitrov’s 32.

Djokovic noted, “There were a couple of tight games in the last part of the match,” acknowledging the two players’ struggle in formidable conditions. “These were tricky conditions. Very swirly. The wind was not consistent, changing a lot. It’s not easy to find control of the ball,” he added.

The Serbian legend, now at the age of 37 years and 10 months, has set a record as the oldest finalist in ATP Masters 1,000 history, further demonstrating his resilience and skill. He is set to face either the unseeded Czech player Jakub Mensik or American Taylor Fritz in the final scheduled for Sunday. Their semi-final match is set to take place later on Friday.

Among the audience supporting Djokovic was Argentine football icon Lionel Messi, who is currently a player with Inter Miami, adding a touch of star power to the event.

Source
www.bbc.com