Novak Djokovic expressed his excitement about returning to Indian Wells for the BNP Paribas Open, marking his first appearance since 2019 due to U.S. travel restrictions amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
As the world’s top-ranked player, he aims for an unprecedented sixth title at this prestigious Masters 1000 event, considered one of the premier tournaments in tennis outside of the Grand Slams.
Djokovic emphasized the significance of being part of the “Tennis Paradise” tournament, describing it as one of the finest tournaments globally, after a five-year absence.
“It’s likely the favored Masters tournament for many players, myself included. I’m eagerly anticipating the opportunity to once again compete in front of some of the best tennis fans on the tour.”
Djokovic secured his first of 24 Grand Slam titles at the Australian Open in 2008, followed shortly by his initial triumph at Indian Wells.
“The first time I clinched the title in Indian Wells, it stood out as one of the highlights of my career at that time. I recall facing Mardy Fish in the finals,” he recalled.
“Since then, I’ve been fortunate to claim the title another four times, engaging in some unforgettable battles in the finals against the likes of Federer and Nadal, among other great players of that era. I’m truly eager to return.”
Three-time Indian Wells champion Nadal is poised to participate in the tournament following his absence from last month’s Australian Open due to a muscle tear.
The 2020 BNP Paribas Open was canceled due to the COVID-19 outbreak, and Djokovic missed the subsequent three editions because unvaccinated foreign nationals were not permitted entry into the United States.
Djokovic was seen in Los Angeles on Sunday night attending a match between fellow sporting icon Lionel Messi and his Major League Soccer team Inter Miami as they faced off against the LA Galaxy.
Carlos Alcaraz and Elena Rybakina hold the titles as defending champions at this year’s BNP Paribas Open, scheduled to take place from March 3 to March 17.
