MIAMI: Novak Djokovic delivered a commanding performance to defeat Lorenzo Musetti 6-2, 6-2 and secure his place in the Miami Open quarter-finals. The Serbian, playing his best tennis since the Australian Open, won 12 of the last 14 games in a rain-delayed match.
The turning point came in the first set when Djokovic voiced his frustration to the chair umpire over a serve clock warning. That moment seemed to ignite the 24-time Grand Slam champion, who immediately broke Musetti’s serve and never looked back.
With tennis legends Serena Williams and Juan Martin del Potro watching from the stands, Djokovic raised his level, striking a stunning backhand winner to take a 5-2 lead in the second set. The match ended when Musetti double-faulted on match point, sealing a dominant victory for the six-time Miami Open champion.
Djokovic expressed his delight at seeing del Potro in his box for the first time, calling it an “amazing” experience. “I was star-struck,” he said. “It was a surprise to see Serena as well.”
Now in the quarter-finals, Djokovic looks poised to continue his pursuit of a record-extending seventh Miami Open title.(Reuters)
