Djokovic joins Dimitrov in the Miami Masters 1000 semifinals
Novak Djokovic is now just two steps away from a 100th career title after defeating Sebastian Korda (6-3, 7-6) in Thursday's quarterfinal in Miami.
Originally scheduled yesterday as the last match on the center court, the game was rescheduled as the third match today. Fortunately for both players, the two preceding matches on the day's program (Fils-Mensik and Sabalenka-Paolini) ended relatively quickly.
The first set was controlled by the six-time tournament champion, who managed to break at 4-3 after a failed service game from Korda. Despite being in command, Djokovic hit a rough patch in the second set, trailing 4-1 and then 5-3.
But with his back against the wall—while Korda was serving for the set—the Serb rediscovered his rhythm, planting doubt in his opponent's mind. Still in danger at 6-5, 30-0 for the American, Djokovic remained calm on his serve to force a tie-break.
Much like his earlier victories against Hijikata and Ugo Carabelli in the tournament, he quickly pulled ahead in the decisive game, relying on an effective serve (83% first serves, 12 aces) to seal the match.
At 37 years and 309 days old, Djokovic has now become the oldest player to reach a Masters 1000 semifinal (the 79th of his career). He will face Grigor Dimitrov tomorrow as he continues his quest for a seventh title in Florida.
