Novak Djokovic Advances to Dubai Championships Semifinals in Dominant Fashion

Novak Djokovic rolled back the years with a masterful 6-3, 6-1 victory over rising star Holger Rune in the Dubai Championships quarterfinals, demonstrating that reports of his decline have been greatly exaggerated.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion was in vintage form at the Aviation Club Tennis Centre, dictating play from the baseline with the precision and court craft that has defined his legendary career. Djokovic converted five of seven break point opportunities while never facing a break point himself, showcasing the defensive resilience that has frustrated opponents for over a decade.

Rune, the talented 21-year-old Dane who has emerged as one of tennis' brightest prospects, struggled to find his rhythm against Djokovic's suffocating court coverage. The world No. 8 managed just 12 winners compared to Djokovic's 24, highlighting the Serbian's ability to turn defense into attack with devastating efficiency.

Djokovic's serve was particularly impressive, landing 78% of his first serves and winning 85% of those points. His return game, long considered among the best in tennis history, proved equally effective as he consistently put pressure on Rune's service games from the opening set.

The victory sets up a compelling semifinal matchup against either Carlos Alcaraz or Daniil Medvedev, promising another chapter in what has been a remarkable career renaissance for the 36-year-old champion. Djokovic's movement appeared effortless throughout the 75-minute encounter, suggesting he has fully recovered from the minor injury concerns that plagued him in January.

With this convincing performance, Djokovic moves one step closer to claiming his sixth Dubai Championships title and continues building momentum ahead of the upcoming clay court season. The Serbian's combination of experience and hunger remains a formidable weapon as he pursues what would be his 99th ATP Tour title in the Emirates.