Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Miami Masters match.
The rivalry between these two experienced players from the Balkans has a rich history. This will be their 14th meeting, and the first took place back in 2012. Novak Djokovic has a massive advantage (12-1).
Novak Djokovic
The Serbian legend turns 38 this year, and while his aura remains intact, the win rate has dipped. After claiming seven titles in 2023, Novak lifted just one in 2024 and currently sits at 11 wins and 4 losses for the new season. Most of those victories have come at the Australian Open and here in Miami, where he’s looked sharp but not invincible. He’s also suffered two early eliminations already this year — a sign that his dominance is no longer automatic.
Grigor Dimitrov
The Bulgarian has nine wins and five losses this season. Almost half of his successful matches have been in Miami. The Bulgarian also made the semi-finals in Brisbane earlier this season, but that was a lower-tier ATP 250 event. In Miami, he had to battle hard — both Karen Khachanov and Francisco Cerundolo took him to three sets, and both matches featured at least one tiebreak. Dimitrov is match-tough and familiar with the high-pressure moments.
Novak Djokovic vs Grigor Dimitrov Prediction
Djokovic has dominated this rivalry, but their matches remain competitive. Dimitrov’s sole win came on clay in Madrid back in 2013. Their last three meetings (all in 2023) went the distance in terms of intensity — with each producing at least 23 games. While Novak typically edges Grigor, it rarely comes easy.
