Novak Djokovic mentioned he felt proper at dwelling at Indian Wells after being away from the match for 5 years and would relish capturing a document sixth crown within the California desert.
The world primary from Serbia was pushed arduous by Aleksandar Vukic in his first match since falling within the Australian Open semifinals six weeks in the past however was capable of finding an additional gear within the third set to advance 6-2 5-7 6-3. “It’s been 5 years, and the good feeling continues to be there,” Djokovic advised reporters after the match, the place he acquired a heat welcome.
“Loved myself very a lot. Stunning stadium. Nice environment. Clearly I used to be a bit nervous in the beginning, whether or not I’m going to begin off properly. Haven’t performed a match in additional than 5 weeks.”
The Masters 1000 match was the primary main sporting occasion to be cancelled in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the 24-time Grand Slam champion had been unable to return to the U.S. since then on account of journey restrictions.
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This week he confirmed little curiosity in discussing his resolution to not get vaccinated towards the virus however mentioned he knew he would finally be allowed to return if he remained affected person.
He mentioned he expects to get higher because the match wears on and mentioned he would like to elevate the trophy and break his tie with Roger Federer of 5 Indian Wells titles apiece.
“Hopefully the rust is a bit off,” he mentioned.
“I do know I can all the time produce higher tennis. Clearly very self-critical, and I believe to some extent it’s additionally essential as a result of then it places you in the precise mindset of eager to work extra.
“Making an attempt to excellent your sport and proper the wrongs that you simply’ve performed in a earlier match or earlier apply session.”
Djokovic faces 20-year-old Italian fortunate loser Luca Nardi within the third spherical on Monday.