Novak Djokovic, with former rival Andy Murray in his coache, is optimistic that he can organize a deep race at the Wells Masters Indian Wells to launch a disappointing 2025 campaign. “I am certainly trying to go deep into the tournament,” said the Serbian star, who is the sixth grade in a field led by the world number two Alexander Zverev and the double reigning champion Carlos Alcaraz. “I did, I think, the good things in preparation. I played good tennis these days. So let’s see. Let’s see how far I can go.” The five titles of Djokovic bind him with the Grand Roger Federer retired mostly in the California desert. His first victory occurred in 2008 and his last in 2016 – when he crowned a series of three triumphs of consecutive Indian Wells.
After drinking semi-finals from the Australian Open in January, Djokovic fell in the second round of the Qatar Open.
Murray was not with him there, but Djokovic said Thursday that he thought he and the Scot would extend their player / coach partnership at least during the Clay court season, and he hoped to take advantage of the advantages of Indian Wells and Miami Open immediately after.
“I appreciate the relationship with Andy,” said Djokovic, the winner of the Grand Colem who made the shock decision to hire Murray in November, just a few months after Murray called Time for his player career.
“I always have the impression of going through the process of knowing each other in the field in a different way from the one we have known for 25 years,” said Djokovic. “It is therefore obviously a new role for him.
“You know, he also explores it and tries to understand how he can excel.”
Murray, himself a triple winner of the Grand Slam, was once part of the “Big Four” of male tennis with Djokovic, Federer and Rafael Nadal.
Despite Murray’s inexperience in the role of coach, Djokovic said he had contributed to the strong performance of the Serb in Australia.
“It was unfortunate to finish the tournament as I did, but it was an injury problem,” said Djokovic. “In terms of play, I think I may have played the best tennis I have played in a certain time, from the Olympic Games, in fact.
“So, I certainly attribute this to the work I had with Andy.”
Djokovic said that the “Double Sunshine” by Indian Wells and Miami provides the perfect section to build his relationship with Murray.
“It is also because apart from the Slams, (there are) few tournaments that really inspire me when I wake up in the morning and I think about where I want to do.
“Indian Wells and Miami are definitely at the top of this list,” he said. “I am delighted to be here with Andy on board.”
(This story has not been published by NDTV staff and is automatically generated from a unionized flow.)
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