Novak Djokovic arrived in Indian Wells a little later than all the other players, but he immediately started practicing with huge intensity.

The former world number 1 has not achieved brilliant results in California in recent years, even having to miss some editions due to his opposition to the vaccine.

The Serbian legend would like to win his sixth title in Indian Wells, but he knows that he will have to play his best tennis from the first rounds.

The 37-year-old from Belgrade had been disastrous in the last edition, struggling a lot on his debut against Vukic and being eliminated by the young Italian Luca Nardi in the next round after playing a horrible match from all points of view.

After injuring his left thigh at the Australian Open, the 24-time Grand Slam champion played only one tournament in February – the Doha ATP 500 – in which he was immediately eliminated by Matteo Berrettini in singles.

Nole also played the doubles tournament alongside his friend and former rival Fernando Verdasco, who played the last match of his professional career (although his real retirement had taken place in the second half of 2023).

Djokovic practices with intensity

After arriving in California, Novak had a practice session with Norwegian ace Casper Ruud and looked in great shape.

The current world number 7 is followed by Andy Murray, who will also accompany him during the Miami Open in the second part of this month.

Their collaboration had worked very well in Australia and it is evident how the former Scottish champion manages to convey the right impulses to the Serbian legend, who needs motivation in this last phase of his career.

As he prepared to serve during his practice session yesterday, a fan yelled ‘Djokovic I love you’ at the former world No.1.

Despite being very focused, Nole heard that cry and had a very funny reaction that generated a collective laugh.

The Serbian’s debut in the first Masters 1000 of the season is scheduled for Saturday 8 March.