On Friday at Hard Rock Stadium, Novak Djokovic defeated Grigor Dimitrov 6-2, 6-3 to secure his spot in the Miami Open final. The fourth-seeded Djokovic dominated the semi-final and advanced to face 19-year-old Jakub Mensik in the final. Mensik earned his place by overcoming Taylor Fritz in a thrilling match that went to a tiebreaker, ultimately winning 7-6 (7-4), 4-6, 7-6 (7-4).
Novak Djokovic Calls Messi’s Courtside Visit an Honour, Praises His Impact on Global Sports
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Notably, legendary footballer and World Cup-winning captain Lionel Messi was in attendance to watch Djokovic in action. After the game, the Tennis star shared that the Inter Miami star visited his locker where they exchanged gifts and added that it was an absolute honour for him to have Messi and his family by the courtside and also lauded his contribution to sports in general.
“Obviously, it’s a thrill to have his whole family. It’s a huge honour. He’s such a great athlete, not just a football player. His impact on the world of sports in the last 20 years has been immense. To have him watch me live brings me great joy and excitement and also a little pressure. It’s definitely different when he brings his family. I was touched by that,” Djokovic said.
Djokovic Eyes 100th Career Title Amidst Recent Struggles Following Injury Setbacks
A win in the final on Sunday, March 30 will also mark Djokovic’s 100th title as a professional. Meanwhile, the Serbian has struggled with form after his success in the Olympics 2024 as the Serbia-born was ruled out of the Australia Open semi-finals due to an injury, and upon his return, Djokovic lost his first match at Indian Wells to Botic van de Zandschulp.