Djokovic Snaps Three-Match Losing Streak To Level Nadal's Record Of ATP 1000 Wins
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Novak Djokovic recorded a very-needed win at the 2025 Miami Open, ending his three-match losing streak.
Djokovic rarely loses matches. He rarely loses two in a row, and there haven't been too many times when he would lose three consecutive matches. That happened this year, but the Serbian player made sure that streak wouldn't extend any further.
His first opponent at the ATP Masters 1000 event in Miami was Rinky Hijikata, and Djokovic came into the match very inspired. The 24-time Grand Slam champion was hungry to record another win, and he played almost flawlessly early on.
Djokovic lost only three points on his serve, and on his opponent's serve, the 37-year-old player was able to trouble his opponent every time. The 99-time ATP titlist created seven break point chances, and he used three to win the opening set of the match 6-0.
For a while, it seemed that it might be an easy win for the Serbian legend, but his opponent also showed his qualities in the second set. Hijikata had two chances to break at 1-1, but those were his only chances in the match, and they remained unused.
However, Djokovic then also couldn't use his 40-0 lead on his opponent's serve at 3-2, and that meant the second set had to be decided in a tie-break, as both players then held their serves without too many issues.
Djokovic easily won the tie-break, winning the match 6-0, 7-6(1) to record his first win since the Australian Open. It was also his 410th career win at the ATP Masters 1000 level, tying Rafael Nadal's record for most wins at such tournaments.
Djokovic was happy about his victory, especially after he had plenty of time to prepare for this tournament. He usually doesn't have that, as he was used to playing one final after another, but after an early exit in Indian Wells, the six-time Miami Open champion had a chance to work on his game.
"I’ve had plenty of time since I lost in Indian Wells. It’s been two weeks, so I had plenty of time to work on my game. I think we’ve done a really good job. Obviously, it’s just the first match, but the way I felt on court and the way I played is really encouraging."
In the next round, Djokovic will take on Camilo Ugo Carabelli, who stunned Alex Michelsen in the second round. By winning the match, the Serbian player will become the sole holder of the record for the most ATP Masters 1000 wins.
Another win would also get Djokovic closer to a potential semi-final matchup with Carlos Alcaraz. The Spaniard said that he wants to meet Djokovic, and the Serbian would likely share a similar sentiment.
