Novak Djokovic stated on Tuesday that he was looking forward to returning to Indian Wells to compete in the BNP Paribas Open for the first time since 2019 when he was unable to travel to the United States due to COVID-19 limitations. The world’s top-ranked player is aiming for a historic sixth championship at the Masters 1000. It begins next week and is regarded as the largest tennis competition outside of the four Grand Slams.
“It has 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, gorgeous town in the Southern California desert. Also read: Nicolas Jarry upsets Carlos Alcaraz to reach Argentina Open final
“It’s probably the favorite Masters tournament of so many players including myself. I can’t wait to come and perform once again in front of some of the best tennis fans that we have on the tour.”
He won the first of his 24 Grand Slams at the Australian Open in 200. Followed a few months later by his first Indian Wells title. Nadal, a three-time winner in Indian Wells, is returning to the tournament after missing the Australian Open last month due to a muscle tear.
Djokovic missed the following three editions since the United States would not allow unvaccinated foreigners to enter the country. Also read: Ambassador Responds To Saudi Arabia Opposition By Evert, Navratilova
Djokovic was photographed in Los Angeles on Sunday night. He was watching Lionel Messi and his Major League Soccer team, Inter Miami CF, face the LA Galaxy. Carlos Alcaraz and Elena Rybakina are the defending winners of this year’s BNP Paribas Open, which takes place from March 3 to 17.