Novak Djokovic, with former rival Andy Murray in his coaching corner, is optimistic about making a deep run at the Indian Wells ATP Masters. The 24-time Grand Slam champion is determined to revive his 2025 season after a disappointing start. Seeded sixth in a strong field led by world number two Alexander Zverev and two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz, Djokovic believes he has done the necessary preparation to compete at the highest level.
Novak Djokovic Seeks Sixth Indian Wells Crown
Having already won five Indian Wells titles, Novak Djokovic is level with Roger Federer for the most titles in the tournament’s history. His first title was in 2008, and his latest in 2016 when he completed a three-year run of consecutive victories. With almost a decade having passed since his last Indian Wells title, Djokovic is keen to leave his stamp again.
“I certainly look to go deep in the tournament,” Djokovic stated. “I’ve done, I think, the right things to prepare. I’ve played some great tennis the past few days. So we’ll see. Let’s see how far I go.”
A New Beginning with Andy Murray
The signing of Andy Murray by Djokovic in November surprised a number of people following their famous on-court rivalry. A three-time Grand Slam and former world number one player, Murray used to be one of the members of the ‘Big Four’ in Djokovic, Federer, and Nadal’s ranks. Now the two of them are going about learning how to have a working relationship.
“I’m enjoying the relationship with Andy,” said Novak Djokovic. “I still feel like we are going through the process of getting to know each other on the court in a different way than we have known each other for 25 years.”
Murray’s presence was already being felt at the Australian Open, where Djokovic had some of his finest tennis in recent times. Even though he withdrew in the semi-finals with injury, he is still optimistic about their collaboration.
“It was unfortunate to finish the tournament the way I did it, but it was an injury issue,” Djokovic remarked. “In terms of the game, I think I played maybe the best tennis that I played in quite some time, since the Olympics, actually. So I definitely attribute that to the work I had with Andy.”
Building Chemistry During the ‘Sunshine Double’
Djokovic and Murray will continue to work together at least until the clay-court season, but Djokovic also expects things to happen right away on hard courts at Indian Wells and the Miami Open.
“It’s also because other than slams, (there are) few tournaments that really give me inspiration when I wake up in the morning and think about where I want to do well,” Djokovic said. “Indian Wells and Miami are definitely at the top of that list. I’m excited to be here with Andy on board.”
With his eyes firmly fixed on reclaiming his reign, Djokovic is set to give his best possible performance in Indian Wells and beyond.
