Miami Open: Djokovic, Halep fight hard to progress
What's the story
Men's world number one tennis player Novak Djokovic is on course for a record seventh Miami Open title. The Serbian fought all the way to the last 16 after defeating a spirited Federico Delbonis. Meanwhile, in the women's section, Simona Halep progressed, but was made to work hard by Polona Hercog. Here are the key results.
Halep
Halep clinches a thriller to advance
Halep lost the first set, but rallied on to clinch a thriller. She won her tie 5-7, 7-6, 6-2 to reach the last 16. Halep can reclaim her number one ranking from Naomi Osaka, if she wins the Miami Open title. "It was good to play for almost three hours though. I slowly found my rhythm but I always had belief," she said.
Women's singles
Halep to meet Venus next, Pliskova through
Halep will be up against seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams in the round of 16. The in-form Venus swept past Russian Daria Kasatkina 6-3, 6-1. Fifth seed Karolina Pliskova beat Alize Cornet 6-7, 6-1, 6-4. "The conditions later in the afternoon aren't the fastest, but I think she played well. It's definitely the best match she's played against me," Pliskova said.
Djokovic
Djokovic wins in three sets to progress
Djokovic enjoyed a stunning 7-5, 4-6, 6-1 victory against Delbonis. Despite enduring some shaky moments, the 31-year-old fought back in style to make it through. He smashed 36 winners in the tie. "It was an exciting match and I am just pleased that I managed to hold my nerve. I got down on myself and Federico started swinging," said Djoker.
Kyrgios
Kyrgios involved in controversy yet again
Nick Kyrgios thumped Dusan Lajovic 6-3, 6-1. The controversial Kyrgios was involved in a verbal altercation with a spectator. "Did you get a free ticket? Why are you watching me on a Sunday night?" Kyrgios was heard saying to the fan. He also threw a ball towards the spectator. Things went out of hand as security personnel escorted the man from the arena.