Recent Form & Journey to the Quarter-Final
Sebastian Korda has had a challenging path to reach the last eight, battling through adverse weather conditions and physical struggles. The 24-year-old American showcased his resilience with a hard-fought 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 victory over Gael Monfils in the Round of 16, avenging his previous loss to the Frenchman at Indian Wells. However, the match was interrupted by rain, forcing Korda to take a medical timeout before eventually withdrawing from his doubles match to focus on this singles campaign.
Korda’s route to the quarter-finals also included victories over Eliot Spizzirri (6-4, 6-2) and a significant win over Stefanos Tsitsipas (7-6[4], 6-3), demonstrating his ability to compete against top-level opposition. However, his ongoing fitness concerns, especially following last year's elbow injury and other health issues, leave question marks over his readiness to handle Djokovic’s relentless pace and precision.
On the other side, Novak Djokovic has cruised through the Miami Open draw with characteristic dominance. The Serbian star, chasing his 100th ATP Tour title, has dispatched each of his opponents in straight sets. His most recent triumph was an emphatic 6-2, 6-2 win over Lorenzo Musetti, where he recovered from a slow start to rattle off six consecutive games to claim the first set before overpowering the Italian in the second.
Djokovic’s journey to the quarter-finals has seen him overcome Rinky Hijikata (6-0, 7-6[1]) and Camilo Ugo Carabelli (6-1, 7-6[1]) with little trouble. Returning to Miami for the first time since 2019, Djokovic is yet to drop a set in this year's tournament, showing his determination to recapture a title he last won in 2016.
Head-to-Head Record
The only previous meeting between the pair came in the 2023 Adelaide final, where Korda came agonizingly close to victory. Djokovic ultimately prevailed 6-7(8), 7-6(3), 6-4, saving a match point along the way. The American’s performance that day showcased his potential, but defeating Djokovic on one of his favorite stages remains a daunting task.
Key Stats & Interesting Facts
- Djokovic has a seven-match winning streak in Miami quarter-finals, advancing to the title match every time he reaches this stage.
- Korda is currently on a four-match winning streak against top-10 opponents, including recent wins over Dimitrov, Ruud, Zverev, and Tsitsipas.
- Djokovic has won 99 ATP Tour titles and is aiming to reach the 100-title milestone in Miami.
- Korda last reached the Miami Open quarter-finals in 2021, where he was defeated by Andrey Rublev in straight sets.
- Djokovic has not been knocked out before the semi-final stage of the Miami Open since 2018.
Injury Updates
- Sebastian Korda: Recently received treatment during his win over Monfils and withdrew from his doubles match to focus on recovery. His health remains a significant concern heading into this clash.
- Novak Djokovic: No reported injury concerns.
What to Expect
Korda will need to produce one of his best performances to stand a chance against a player of Djokovic’s calibre. His success will largely depend on whether he can physically withstand the demands of a grueling contest. His impressive record against top-10 opponents recently suggests he can be competitive, but Djokovic's consistency and experience make him a formidable challenge.
Meanwhile, Djokovic will be motivated not only by the prospect of a seventh Miami Open title but also by the milestone of claiming his 100th ATP Tour title. The Serbian will look to take advantage of Korda’s questionable fitness and impose his own aggressive style from the baseline.