Please refrain from referring to it as a comeback, as Novak Djokovic has not participated in the Miami Open for several years.
Djokovic participated in the tournament for the first time since 2019.
On Stadium Court, Djokovic defeated Rinky Hijikata with scores of 6-0, 7-6 in the second set tiebreak.
“It is amazing to be back,” Djokovic said. “It has been way to long.”
It was Novak’s 410th Masters 1000 victory, tying him with Rafael Nadal for the most all-time.
“Six years, way too long,” said Djokovic.
Jannik Sinner will be unable to defend his title at the Miami Open due to a suspension.
Djokovic secured his 45th victory at the Miami Open this week and is currently aiming to achieve his 100th career title.
Novak Djokovic has achieved six Miami Open titles, tying him with the renowned Andre Agassi for the most in the tournament’s history.
While Djokovic achieved success, Friday saw three recent Miami Open men’s singles champions exit this year’s tournament. Jaume Munar defeated 2023 champion Daniil Medvedev, and David Goffin overcame a deficit to upset 2022 winner Carlos Alcaraz. Additionally, Hubert Hurkacz, the 2021 champion, withdrew prior to his match due to a lower back injury.
Another notable match on the women’s side took place on the Grandstand Court, featuring a contest between Emma Raducanu and Emma Navarro. This was the longest match of the tournament to date, lasting 2 hours and 53 minutes. Emma Raducanu emerged victorious, defeating Emma Navarro in three sets, with two of the sets determined by tiebreaks.
The WTA’s emerging young talent has been demonstrating impressive performances through two rounds at the Miami Open presented by Itaú. Of the remaining 32 competitors, 13 are aged 23 or younger, including three teenagers. Leading among them is 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva, who on Friday secured her 13th consecutive victory, setting the stage for a third-round match on Sunday against 23-year-old American Amanda Anisimova. The other two teenage players remaining are both 19 years old: Alexandra Eala defeated No. 25 Jelena Ostapenko on Friday and will face Australian Open champion Madison Keys in the next round, while Linda Fruhvirtova is scheduled to compete against Magda Linette on Saturday.
Photo/Miami Open presented by Itaú’
