Novak Djokovic narrowly missed clinching his 100th career title after a gripping final showdown at the Miami Open, where he fell to Jakub Mensik in a match decided by two razor-thin tie-breakers. Despite this setback, Andy Roddick is confident that the 24-time Grand Slam champion sent a powerful signal to his competitors as the major tournaments draw nearer.
Throughout the tournament, Djokovic displayed his trademark prowess by cruising into the final without dropping a single set. However, his path was obstructed by Mensik’s formidable big serves, which ultimately proved decisive in those critical tie-break moments. The Serbian legend’s performance in Miami should serve as a reminder of his lasting quality and determination, especially as he edges closer to his 38th birthday. Roddick has voiced his support for Djokovic’s continued excellence, even suggesting that the ace player is still more than capable of securing a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title.
“He can still win a major, especially when the surface is giving him some love, like it was in Miami. Where the ball is getting through the court, where he doesn’t have to protect the sidelines as much and doesn’t have to play as much defence,” Roddick remarked on his latest Served podcast.
Moreover, Roddick highlighted the remarkable circumstances surrounding Djokovic’s run, pointing out that despite advancing effortlessly until the final, the latter ended in a tight contest lost by just two tie-breakers. “Extraordinary. There’s just not a world that anyone is saying Djokovic was disappointing because he didn’t win that final. What? He’s almost 38 years, didn’t drop a set until the final and lost two breakers. If they played the match again tomorrow, I would bet on Novak on that surface.” The former rival praised Djokovic’s unwavering dedication and noted that his sustained form—evident from his performances in both Indian Wells and Miami—has reinvigorated his presence on the tour.
Roddick also pointed out that the infusion of fresh strategy, thanks to former rival Andy Murray joining his coaching team, may have provided Djokovic with a renewed spark. This change, he believes, could be key as Djokovic sets his sights on further success, particularly at the French Open. “What Novak is doing is just crazy. I didn’t think we would see this much of him this year. He stayed in the States for a month to play Indian Wells and Miami.”
Looking ahead, Roddick elaborated on Djokovic’s potential to mount another major challenge, especially on surfaces that seem to compliment his aggressive style. “Is the product he is putting out there good enough to win a major? Yes, it is. Will it happen? I don’t know,” Roddick added, acknowledging the blend of consistency and flashes of brilliance that have characterized Djokovic’s game. His remarks further underlined the impression that Djokovic’s recent form, including his inspirational win at the Olympics, underscores his enduring competitiveness and zest to excel.
“You talked about Roland Garros, three out of five [sets]. This guy did win the Olympics there a few months ago.
“He seems happy playing right now. He seems motivated to play right now. He has someone different to report to. Maybe that’s the benefit of the Murray situation.
“So long as he is in tennis, it’s better to watch. Even a version of him, and I say this gently, where he is ‘only’ the third favourite in every Slam now.
“He’s going to be 38, but are you going to put him outside of the top three to win Wimbledon? No, he’s your third favourite. Sinner, Alcaraz and Djokovic.
“It’s just amazing that he’s still going. Connors made the semi-final of the US Open and it was like he rode a hot air balloon to the moon,” he added.
“Now guys are kinda doing this. These three have reset the expectations on everything.”
As Djokovic prepares to transition from hard courts to the slower pace of clay, his focus shifts to the upcoming Monte Carlo Masters, marking the next phase of his campaign on the European circuit. With the French Open looming next month, all eyes are now on whether the veteran ace will harness his current momentum to finally add another Grand Slam to his storied career.