Los Angeles: Novak Djokovic said on Tuesday he was delighted to be back in Indian Wells to compete at the BNP Paribas Open for the first time since 2019 after US COVID-19 travel restrictions kept him the gap.
The world number one is seeking an unprecedented sixth title at the Masters 1000 which begins next week and is considered the biggest tennis tournament outside the four Grand Slams.
“It’s been five years, way too long to not be a part of the Tennis Paradise tournament, one of the best tournaments in the world without a doubt,” Djokovic said in a video from the small, picturesque desert town in Southern California .
“This is probably the favorite Masters tournament for many players, myself included. I can’t wait to come play once again in front of some of the best tennis fans we have on the tour.”
The Serbian won the first of his 24 Grand Slams at the Australian Open in 2008 and confirmed his feat a few months later by winning his first crown at Indian Wells.
“The first time I won the title in Indian Wells, it was one of the biggest titles of my career at that point. I remember playing against Mardy Fish in the final,” he said. he declares.
“I was lucky enough to win the tournament four more times and played epic matches in the final against (Roger) Federer and (Rafael) Nadal and many great players of that era. I’m really looking forward to to come back.”
Nadal, a three-time Indian Wells champion, is expected to play in the tournament after missing the Australian Open last month due to a torn muscle.
The 2020 BNP Paribas Open was canceled due to the COVID-19 outbreak and Djokovic missed the next three editions as the United States did not allow unvaccinated foreigners into the country.
Djokovic was spotted in Los Angeles on Sunday evening watching compatriot Lionel Messi and his Major League Soccer team Inter Miami take on the LA Galaxy.
Carlos Alcaraz and Elena Rybakina are the reigning champions of this year’s BNP Paribas Open, which takes place March 3-17.
