Novak Djokovic hoping the 'rust' is off after winning return to Indian Wells
Novak Djokovic is hoping that the rust is off as he made a winning return at the Indian Wells on Saturday, March 9. Djokovic defeated Vukic to progress to the third round.
In Short
- Djokovic defeated Vukic in three sets on Saturday
- Djokovic said he is expecting the tournament to get tougher
- Djokovic is chasing his 6th crown at Indian Wells
Novak Djokovic is hoping that the 'rust' is off after making his triumphant return at the Indian Wells after a long-hiatus.
Djokovic made his return to the California desert after a gap of five years and started off his quest for a record sixth crown with a win over Aleksandar Vukic with a score of 6-2, 5-7, 6-3.
Speaking to the reporters after the match, as quoted by Reuters, Djokovic said the great feeling was still there for him at the Indian Wells and enjoyed himself very much during the match with the support from the crowd.
"It's been five years and the great feeling is still there," Djokovic told reporters after the match, where he received a warm welcome.
"Enjoyed myself very much. Beautiful stadium. Great atmosphere. Obviously I was a bit nervous at the beginning, whether I'm going to start off well. Haven't played a match in more than five weeks."
I know I can always produce better tennis: Djokovic
Djokovic's return on Saturday was his first match after his semi-final loss to Jannik Sinner at the Australian Open. The Serbian star was pushed a bit during the match by Vukic in the second set, but found an extra gear in the final one.
Djokovic said he is expecting the tournament to get tougher and is hoping he can get up to pace quickly. The Serbian star said he knows he can produce better tennis and is looking at perfecting his game.
"Hopefully the rust is a bit off," he said.
"I know I can always produce better tennis. Obviously very self-critical, and I think to some extent it's also important because then it puts you in the right mindset of wanting to work more."
"Trying to perfect your game and right the wrongs that you've done in a previous match or previous practice session."
Djokovic was forced into a hiatus from the Indian Wells tournament due to the COVID-19 restrictions in the US after the 2020 edition was cancelled due to the pandemic. A win at the Indian Wells would help Djokovic go past Roger Federer, who he is currently tied with at 5 titles.