Novak Djokovic has prepared very well for his debut in Indian Wells today, where he will face Dutch ace Botic van de Zandschulp. The latter took advantage of Australian ace Nick Kyrgios’ retirement in the previous round and will be able to play with nothing to lose against an opponent who has made tennis history, breaking almost all records on the men’s tour.
The Serbian legend has won five times in California during his career, the same number of triumphs as Roger Federer, but he has struggled a lot to play his best tennis here in recent years (having also missed some editions due to his refusal to get vaccinated against the Coronavirus).
The 24-time Grand Slam champion played his last major match against Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Australian Open, as he had to retire during the semifinal against Alexander Zverev due to a left thigh injury.
The former world number 1 also played a tournament in February – the Doha ATP 500 – where he immediately stopped against a deluxe version of Matteo Berrettini.
Nole pays tribute to Fred Stolle
During his pre-tournament press conference, the current world No.7 used the opportunity to pay tribute to legendary Australian player Fred Stolle (who died on Thursday at the age of 86): “I would like to send my condolences to his family. It’s never good news when a legend of our sport leaves us.
The mark he left and the impact he had will remain forever etched in everyone’s memory. I think it’s very important for the new generations to remember Fred and all the other legends who helped make tennis the sport we know today.
This is very sad news, but his legacy is destined to last forever.”
Nole said that he feels very good right now and that Andy Murray’s support has proved really useful, as evidenced by the feeling between the two legends during the last few AO.
