Novak Djokovic Advances to Dubai Championship Semifinals with Straight-Set Victory

Novak Djokovic continued his relentless pursuit of tennis history Monday, defeating Roberto Carballes Baena 6-3, 6-4 to advance to the semifinals of the Dubai Tennis Championships. The victory moves the 24-time Grand Slam champion within two wins of capturing his 99th ATP Tour title, a milestone that would place him just one away from becoming only the third player in tennis history to reach the century mark.

The Serbian maestro was in commanding form throughout the match, breaking serve three times while never facing a break point himself. Djokovics trademark consistency and court coverage proved too much for the Spanish qualifier, who struggled to find answers against one of tennis greatest competitors. The world number one hit 28 winners while committing just 12 unforced errors in the 90-minute encounter.

Djokovic opened the first set with an immediate break, capitalizing on some nervous play from Carballes Baena in the opening game. The 36-year-old then held serve comfortably throughout the set, using his exceptional return game to keep constant pressure on his opponents delivery. A second break in the eighth game sealed the opener, with Djokovic converting his first set point with a trademark backhand down the line.

The second set followed a similar pattern, with Djokovic securing the crucial break in the seventh game after a lengthy rally that showcased his incredible defensive abilities. Despite Carballes Baenas best efforts to extend rallies and change the pace, Djokovic remained patient and precise, waiting for his opportunities and converting them with ruthless efficiency.

Speaking after the match, Djokovic expressed satisfaction with his performance and looked ahead to the challenges that remain. I felt good on the court today, very solid from the baseline, he said. Roberto is a tough competitor who makes you work for every point, so Im pleased with how I handled the pressure moments. Now I need to recover well and prepare for the semifinals.

Djokovic will face either Alexander Zverev or Andrey Rublev in Fridays semifinal, with both players capable of providing a stern test of his championship credentials. The Dubai title would represent his second trophy of the 2026 season and continue his remarkable late-career resurgence that shows no signs of slowing down despite his advancing age.