Novak Djokovic can win his 100th career title and his first since the Paris Olympics in today’s Miami Open final. The Serb faces the impressive Czech teenager Jakub Mensik in the men’s singles showdown.
Injuries and some inconsistent performances have seen Djokovic struggle to continue his dominance on the ATP Tour. The 37-year-old has dropped to No. 5 in the world rankings but could get a major boost if he wins this week’s Masters 1000 title. A Djokovic victory over Mensik would also signal Andy Murray’s first trophy as a coach.
Mensik has enjoyed a brilliant run to the final. The 19-year-old has beaten the likes of Jack Draper, Arthur Fils and Taylor Fritz to reach this stage. Eighteen years Djokovic’s junior, he will be a tough opponent for the 24-time Grand Slam champion.
Express Sport brings you all the Miami Open details.
Miami Open final prize money
The Miami Open champion will win £868,938 ($1,124,380). The winner will also receive 1,000 ranking points. Both prizes would be a welcome boost for Djokovic as he hopes to overcome what has been a largely difficult 12 months.
Whoever loses the final will bank £462,058 ($597,890) and receive 650 ranking points.
Losing semi-finalists Fritz and Grigor Dimitrov both took home £256,698 ($332,160). There is a total prize fund of £7,104,906 ($9,193,540).
How to watch the Miami Open final
A start time for the Miami Open men’s singles final is yet to be established. But UK viewers can watch the match live on Sky Sports or stream on Now TV.
Both players met Inter Miami star Lionel Messi ahead of their semi-final matches. Djokovic exchanged gifts with the Argentine.
“Obviously, it’s a thrill to have his whole family,” Djokovic said. “It’s a huge honour. He’s such a great athlete, not just a football player. His impact on the world of sports in the last 20 years has been immense.
“To have him watch me live brings me great joy and excitement and also a little pressure. It’s definitely different when he brings his family. I was touched by that.”
Mesik also met the football icon and joked: “I didn’t wash my hands before I stepped on the court.”
Content Source: www.express.co.uk