Djokovic and Sabalenka Advance to Miami Open Finals
Djokovic Moves Closer to 100th Title
Novak Djokovic is now just two victories away from achieving his 100th career title after defeating Sebastian Korda with a score of 6-3, 7-6(4). Meanwhile, Aryna Sabalenka, the world number one, secured her spot in the Miami Open final by overpowering Jasmine Paolini 6-2, 6-2 on Thursday.
After clinching the match with an ace, Djokovic celebrated with a loud roar, prompting his former rival and current coach, Andy Murray, to join in the excitement.
The Serbian, who has won 24 Grand Slam titles, found himself trailing Korda 5-2 in the second set but managed to break back as Korda served at 5-3. His strong and accurate serving propelled him to victory.
Djokovic commented on his performance, stating, "I’ve been serving great throughout the tournament, especially today when I needed it most in the second set to mount a comeback." He highlighted key moments in the tiebreak that determined the match's outcome.
This victory marks a significant milestone for Djokovic, who will turn 38 in May, as he becomes the oldest ATP Masters 1000 semi-finalist, surpassing Roger Federer’s record from 2019.
Originally set for Wednesday, the match was postponed due to ATP regulations designed to prevent matches from extending into the early morning hours.
As the fourth seed, Djokovic aims for a record seventh Miami Open title and will face 14th-seeded Grigor Dimitrov in the semi-finals on Friday.
Sabalenka Dominates to Reach Final
In the women's draw, Aryna Sabalenka showcased her prowess by winning 77% of her first-serve points, hitting six aces, and saving all four break points she faced against sixth-seeded Paolini in a match that lasted just 71 minutes.
The Belarusian, who lives in South Florida and recently finished as a runner-up at Indian Wells, has not lost a set in her five matches at the Miami Open.
Sabalenka's next challenge will be against American fourth seed Jessica Pegula, who defeated Philippine wildcard Alexandra Eala 7-6(3), 5-7, 6-3, ending Eala's impressive run.
Pegula expressed her confidence, stating, "It’s nice to know I can win these big matches in really clutch, pressure moments and come out on top." She acknowledged Sabalenka's skills, anticipating a tough battle ahead.
In a thrilling match that extended past midnight, Pegula managed to recover from a 2-5 deficit in the first set and maintained her composure in the deciding set, ultimately securing the win.
Eala, who had previously defeated three Grand Slam champions, received a standing ovation from the crowd, blowing kisses as she celebrated her remarkable journey.