Novak Djokovic Returns to Miami Open Amidst Challenges
After a hiatus of six years, Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic is set to grace the Miami Open once again, aiming to regain his form on the court.
Djokovic's last appearance at this prominent tournament was back in 2019, where he faced an early exit against Spain’s Roberto Bautista Agut in the round of 16. His return this year comes after significant roadblocks, including his refusal to get vaccinated against Covid-19, which previously kept him out of the United States. The 37-year-old Belgrade native has also made a conscious decision to limit his playing schedule in recent years, prioritizing his health and performance at major tournaments.
However, following a surprising defeat to Botic van de Zandschulp at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, Djokovic recognizes the urgency to return to competitive play. This loss marked Djokovic’s third consecutive defeat, a trend he hasn’t experienced in seven years. Analysts and fans alike are eyeing his match against Australia's Rinky Hijikata on March 21, 2025, as a pivotal moment for the tennis legend.
According to sports analyst Benoit Maylin, Djokovic’s recent struggles highlight a pressing need for match practice. “Djokovic has suffered three consecutive losses, a streak he hasn’t experienced in seven years. His tennis has been less than stellar. Yes, he’s won this tournament six times, but that was at the old venue,” noted Maylin in a recent episode of ‘Sans Filet’.
Djokovic's participation in the Miami Open is not merely for the sake of glory at this particular event. As Maylin points out, it’s more about preparing for the upcoming Grand Slam at Roland Garros. Winning at Roland Garros would give Djokovic the remarkable achievement of winning each Grand Slam title at least four times. If things don’t go as planned, Djokovic is likely to refocus his efforts on Wimbledon, where he has consistently reached the finals since 2018.
As anticipation grows for Djokovic’s first match since his losses, his fans are looking forward to seeing how he adapts on the court. The Miami Open is set against the backdrop of both Djokovic’s storied career and the current state of his game, which remains under scrutiny.
Match statistics reveal the seriousness of Djokovic’s situation. He holds a win-loss record of 7-4 for 2025 and is chasing his 100th ATP title. In contrast, Rinky Hijikata, ranked 86th in the world, comes into the second round with a record of 5-7 this year. Hijikata reached this stage after defeating Hamad Medjedovic in a gripping three-set battle.
Heading into the encounter, Djokovic holds a favorable historical advantage, having previously defeated Hijikata 6-3, 6-3 earlier in the 2025 season. Yet, the pressure is on for Djokovic to break his losing streak and display the resilient play for which he is known.
There's more at stake than just the Miami Open for Djokovic. While he aims for a record-equalling win in Masters 1000 events, reaching 50 wins at Miami would be a milestone for the champion. With 44 wins already at the event, a title victory would solidify his legacy even further.
As Djokovic gears up, the tennis world is watching closely, wondering if the six-time Miami Open champion can overcome his challenges and redefine his form on the court. Fans and critics alike will find their answers soon as the competition heats up in Miami.
Finally, the veteran's return serves as a reminder of his extraordinary resilience and untapped potential. The Miami Open may not just be another tournament; it's a crucial stepping stone in Djokovic's journey towards further Grand Slam accomplishments. As we anticipate this event, the tennis community is left to ponder: can Djokovic reclaim his former glory, or will the struggles of recent months continue to haunt him?
