Novak Djokovic has been crusing by means of uncharted territory for the reason that starting of 2024! The 24-time Main winner opened up after his Indian Wells defeat, admitting he has been struggling to search out the specified type. In Djokovic’s phrases, there’s nothing to organize you for these difficult instances.
Nevertheless, the legend is able to along with his points and do all the pieces to boost his degree and change into aggressive once more. The Serb ended the 2023 season in glory, claiming three Main titles from 4 finals and securing the year-end no. 1 honor at 36.
Nevertheless, issues haven’t been that nice for essentially the most completed participant of all time since final 12 months. Novak reached one remaining on the earlier 5 Majors and skilled a few setbacks with accidents.
Novak Djokovic making a vogue assertion at Indian Wells 💀💀💀
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) March 9, 2025
The Serb is on a three-match shedding streak for the primary time since 2018. Djokovic retired in opposition to Alexander Zverev within the Australian Open semi-final. He then fell within the first spherical in Doha and Indian Wells for extra darkish clouds over his head.
The five-time champion within the desert confronted a fortunate loser Botic van de Zandschulp within the second spherical. The Dutchman scored a notable 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 victory in two hours and one minute. Novak performed miles beneath his greatest and struggled to search out the appropriate pictures on a bouncy courtroom.
Novak Djokovic, Indian Wells 2025© Stream screenshot
He made a gradual begin and misplaced the bottom within the decider for an early exit. Botic collected 21 factors greater than Novak, who couldn’t discover a resolution after lacking the primary serve. Djokovic confronted eight break factors and received damaged 5 instances.
The Dutchman skilled two breaks within the second set and saved all the pieces below management within the different two following a flawless efficiency behind the second serve. The Serb hit 16 winners and 37 unforced errors, lacking an excessive amount of from his forehand.
Botic carried out at a excessive degree and landed 26 winners and 25 unforced errors. He hit extra service winners than the legend and toppled him from the baseline. Novak will attempt to enhance his degree on the Miami Masters in two weeks.
Novak Djokovic, Indian Wells 2025© Stream screenshot
“Things have been different for me last couple of years. I have been struggling to compete on the desired level. I have had a couple of good tournaments, but it’s mostly a challenge. Nothing can prepare you for that moment.
You must experience it and try to deal with it in the best possible way,” Novak Djokovic mentioned.