Novak Djokovic Returns to Miami Open After Six-Year Absence
Following his early exit at Indian Wells, where he struggled against Botic van de Zandschulp, some speculated that Novak Djokovic might skip the Miami Open to focus on preparing for the clay-court season.
However, despite often prioritizing rest and early clay-court training in recent years, the six-time Miami champion has decided to return to the tournament for the first time since 2019.
Djokovic’s Miami Comeback
The 24-time Grand Slam champion has a rich history at the Florida Masters 1000, having won the title six times—most of them at the tournament’s former venue in Key Biscayne.
His last two appearances, however, were far less successful. In 2018, he suffered a shock loss to Benoit Paire in what was one of the most challenging seasons of his career. A year later, in the event’s debut at Hard Rock Stadium, Djokovic’s campaign ended in the round of 16 against Roberto Bautista Agut.
Since then, a combination of his COVID-19 vaccine stance and a reduced schedule kept him away from the tournament. But this year, the 37-year-old Serbian recognizes the need to play more matches to maintain peak form for the Grand Slams. His disappointing early exit at Indian Wells has only reinforced the urgency to regain momentum.
Djokovic arrived in Miami on Saturday alongside his coach Andy Murray and has already begun intense training sessions in preparation for his opening match on Friday or Saturday.
In addition to practice, fans spotted Djokovic attending an exclusive party, where he mingled with celebrities like Eva Longoria, Jessica Alba, Marc Anthony, and Becky G—a rare off-court glimpse of the tennis icon as he gears up for his Miami Open return.
