Dimitrov casts his spell on Khachanov

2024 Miami Masters finalist Grigor Dimitrov moved into position as he seeks a possible South Florida repeat, with the veteran staging a 6-7 (3), 6-4, 7-5 defeat of Karen Khachanov on Sunday to reach the fourth round.

The 33-year-old holds the edge over Khachanov, with his record now 5-1 in the series.

Dimitrov lost the final here a year ago to Jannik Sinner and came from 3-4, 15-40 in the deciding third set against Khachanov. The Bulgarian has now won seven of his last eight matches in Miami.

It took Dimitrov nearly two and three-quarter hours to advance as he became the fourth current player to reach 100 match wins at the Masters 1000 level, with Novak Djokovic pacing that statistic with 271.

“Last year I think I hit 100 wins indoors, now this.. every time you hit such a milestone,” Dimitrov said.

“When I feel like I’m still able to compete, to do what I do out there on the court, everything else comes as a plus – another plus into the resume. 

“I don’t take anything for granted, especially when I’m still able to compete against the younger guys and feel love for the game.”

Main photo:- Grigor Dimitrov beating Karen Khachanov – by Pete Staples/ATPTour.com