Djokovic Advances to Dubai Championships Final With Dominant Performance

Novak Djokovic continued his exceptional start to the 2026 season Saturday, defeating Casper Ruud 6-4, 6-2 in the semifinals of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships to advance to his third consecutive final at the prestigious ATP 500 event.

The 36-year-old Serbian showed no signs of slowing down, delivering a masterful performance that showcased the court craft and mental toughness that have defined his legendary career. Djokovic controlled the match from the baseline, breaking Ruud's serve four times while never facing a break point on his own serve.

"I felt really good out there today," Djokovic said in his post-match interview. "My movement was sharp, my serve was working well, and I was able to dictate most of the rallies. Casper is a tough opponent, but I managed to find my rhythm early and maintained it throughout the match."

The victory extends Djokovic's perfect record in 2026 to 12-0, including titles at the Australian Open and the ATP 250 event in Adelaide. His dominant form has reignited discussions about his pursuit of a 25th Grand Slam title and his ability to compete at the highest level well into his late thirties.

Ruud, the Norwegian world No. 7, struggled to find answers against Djokovic's suffocating court coverage and precise shot-making. The French Open finalist managed just 11 winners compared to Djokovic's 24, while committing 18 unforced errors in the 79-minute encounter.

"Novak played an almost perfect match today," Ruud admitted. "When he's in this kind of form, there's very little you can do. He's moving like someone 10 years younger, and his experience in these big moments is unmatched."

Djokovic will face either Carlos Alcaraz or Daniil Medvedev in Sunday's final, depending on the outcome of Saturday's late semifinal. The Serbian has won the Dubai title five times previously, most recently in 2023, and is seeking his 98th ATP Tour singles title.

With the Miami Open just two weeks away, Djokovic's early-season form suggests he remains the player to beat as the tour moves into the crucial hard-court swing leading up to the European clay season.