Djokovic Advances at Miami Open Amid Uncertainty Over Future

MIAMI, March 26, 2025 — Novak Djokovic continues to impress at the Miami Open as he pursues his 100th career title, reflecting a career filled with questions about his future. In his latest match on Tuesday night, Djokovic defeated Lorenzo Musetti with a decisive score of 6-2, 6-2, displaying flashes of his former brilliance just days after facing elusive performance issues.

With his impending 38th birthday approaching, the question remains — just how much longer can the 24-time Grand Slam champion maintain his elite level of play? “I think my level is really good, I’m very happy. This was the best match of the tournament for me so far,” Djokovic said following his victory over Musetti.

The Serbian star has captivated fans as he balances his current fitness with the realities of aging in a sport that demands peak physical condition. During his recent time at the Australian Open, Djokovic showcased resilience but faced challenges, including a muscle tear that forced him to retire in a semifinal match against Alexander Zverev.

“The continuity or consistency of the level of tennis nowadays is more challenging than it was years ago,” Djokovic noted. “I still keep the dedication, but it’s just a bit more challenging for me to maintain the level.”

In Miami, Djokovic’s performance against Musetti was a stark contrast to his earlier struggles this season where he faced defeats and inconsistencies. He acknowledged feeling starstruck competing in front of tennis legends like Serena Williams, who watched from the stands, adding to the electric atmosphere of the match.

Despite Musetti’s recent win over Djokovic at the Monte-Carlo Masters, Tuesday’s match illustrated Djokovic’s superior command. He quickly dominated the contest after initially facing a challenge from Musetti, who surged to a quick lead before Djokovic took control, winning nine consecutive games.

“I broke his serve and never looked back,” Djokovic recounted. “Phenomenal.” With his quarterfinal match set against 24-year-old Sebastian Korda, Djokovic remains focused on achieving significant milestones within tennis, such as winning a seventh title in Miami and eventually continuing his pursuit for a 25th Grand Slam title.

As he navigates this climactic stage of his career, Djokovic is acutely aware of the evolution in the sport’s competitiveness, citing that many young players now have extensive support systems and professional training. “Fitness and recovery have improved so much. Now, every player in the top 30 has a team that helps them with their body and mental health,” he explained.

Djokovic is on a journey of self-discovery, seeking to adapt his game while maintaining the physical prowess required to compete. The weight of expectations and his own aspirations loom large as he strives for greatness amidst the challenges posed by a new generation of players.