World No. 1 Novak Djokovic stretching for the ball against Australian Aleksandar Vukic in the second round at Indian Wells on March 9. The Serb, seeking a record sixth title at the California desert event, prevailed 6-2, 5-7, 6-3.
Novak Djokovic said that it felt "like home" despite being pushed by Aleksandar Vukic before holding on to win his first match back in Indian Wells on March 9 after a five-year absence.
The world No. 1, seeking to capture a record sixth title at the California desert tournament, has not competed there since 2019 as he was unable to enter the United States owing to travel restrictions during the Covid-19 pandemic.
But the Serb, 36, still received a warm welcome from fans for the 6-2, 5-7, 6-3 victory over his Australian opponent.
"It certainly does feel like home.
Five years is a very long time for a tennis player. They call this tournament 'tennis paradise' for a reason.
It's so amazing to be part of it as a player and a fan. There's a great community, great culture, great love for the sport," Djokovic said in an on-court interview.
This story is from the March 11, 2024 edition of The Straits Times.
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This story is from the March 11, 2024 edition of The Straits Times.
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