Djokovic Returns to Miami: Stars Clash in Exciting Third Round Action

Miami, FL, USA — The 2025 Miami Open presented by Itau lights up Hard Rock Stadium as a star-studded field commences third-round action on March 23. Among the standout competitors are Novak Djokovic, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Casper Ruud, all eager to advance further in the prestigious ATP Masters 1000 tournament.

Djokovic marked his return to the Miami Open with a commanding performance against Australian Rinky Hijikata, winning 6-0, 7-6(1). This match marked Djokovic’s first appearance in Miami since 2019, and his victory not only secured him a spot in the third round but also tied him with Rafael Nadal for the most ATP Masters 1000 match wins at 410.

“I wanted to make a statement to myself and to others, as well, that I’m still able to play on a high level,” Djokovic said post-match. “I lost my last two tournaments in the first rounds, so I really was eager to get the win in the first match in Miami Open.”

The opening set saw Djokovic showcase his elite shot-making ability, while Hijikata fought back to make the second set competitive, ultimately leading to a tense tiebreaker.

Earlier in the tournament, upsets stirred the competition as Carlos Alcaraz, the second seed, fell to Belgian David Goffin with a scoreline of 5-7, 6-4, 6-3. Goffin dominated, winning on his second match point with Alcaraz unable to reach his decisive shot.

“It was a tough match, but I managed to stay focused and keep the pressure on him,” Goffin commented. His victory sets him up to face Brandon Nakashima, who defeated Roberto Carballes Baena, 6-4, 4-6, 6-3.

In addition to Djokovic, several former finalists advanced including Casper Ruud and Grigor Dimitrov, while seventh seed Daniil Medvedev faced an early exit against Spaniard Jaume Munar, losing 6-2, 6-3.

On the women’s side, Russian teen sensation Mirra Andreeva continued to impress with a strong 6-0, 6-2 win over Veronika Kudermetova. Fresh off her success at Indian Wells, Andreeva will compete against Amanda Anisimova next.

Poland’s Iga Swiatek, the second seed, also progressed with a 6-2, 7-5 victory over Caroline Garcia, setting up a third-round meeting with Elise Mertens. “I’m feeling great about my game, and this is just the beginning,” Swiatek expressed during her post-match interview.

Madison Keys, the Australian Open champion, advanced comfortably as well, defeating Elina Avanesyan 6-3, 6-3, and will compete against Filipino wildcard Alexandra Eala, who triumphed over Jelena Ostapenko.

As the tournament unfolds, fans can look forward to an intense round of matches featuring top talents. The third-round schedule promises thrilling encounters as players vie for a title in one of the sport’s biggest events.