Novak Djokovic Eager to Compete in Indian Wells Despite Injury Rumors
INDIAN WELLS, Calif. – Ahead of the BNP Paribas Open, Novak Djokovic clarified that he is in good health, dispelling concerns sparked by a viral video showing him limping into an airport after the Doha tournament last month. Djokovic explained that the limp was due to an unrelated incident and not the hamstring injury that caused him to withdraw from his Australian Open semifinal back in January.
“It was quite awkward watching that video,” Djokovic, seeded sixth in the tournament, admitted on Thursday. “I accidentally hurt my ankle badly as I left for the airport around 4 or 5 a.m. That’s all it was—just an awkward hit, nothing more. However, people linked it to my previous injury, assuming it was a recurrence.”
“But I’m feeling great now and excited to compete in Indian Wells and Miami this year,” he continued. “I’ll be playing the Sunshine Double for the first time in about six years.”
The 37-year-old Djokovic was defeated by Matteo Berrettini in his opening match in Doha, and the circulating airport video heightened public concern. He hasn’t played since the incident. Following a bye in the first round, Djokovic is scheduled to play in Indian Wells on Saturday against the winner of Thursday’s match between Botic van de Zandschulp and Nick Kyrgios, whom Djokovic conquered in the 2022 Wimbledon final.
A five-time BNP Paribas Open champion, with his last victory in 2016, Djokovic is pursuing his 100th ATP title. Achieving this milestone would place him among the ranks of tennis greats like Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer. Despite taking home Olympic gold in Paris last summer, the Serbian star has faced challenges with motivation on the tour but is eager to showcase his best at these prestigious events in the U.S. this month.
“Besides the Grand Slams, there are only a few tournaments that truly inspire me each morning when I think about performing well,” Djokovic shared. “Indian Wells and Miami are definitely at the top of that list.”
Djokovic also expressed delight in having Andy Murray, his former rival-turn-coach, accompanying him for both events. They plan to discuss after Miami whether they wish to continue their coaching partnership.