by Indian Wells, California – Novak Djokovic said prior to the BNP Paribas open that he is healthy and the viral video of him that bumped the airport in the airport in Doha after last month’s tournament, was not related to the hamstring injury that forced him to withdraw from his Semifinal Matchche Matchche Matchch.
“It was real, yes, uncomfortable to see that video, because I arrived at the airport and I struck myself very much while I was walking away because it was very early, I think, 4 or 5 hours.” That’s all. It was just a hit. It was nothing else. But then people brought it to the injury and thought it was something escalating and returning.
“But anyway, I feel good. I am really looking forward to coming to Indian Wells and Miami this year. I will play the Sunshine Double first time, I think, for six years.”
Djokovic, 37, lost to Matteo Berrettini in his first round in Doha and attracted concern after the video of the airport appeared on social media. He has not played since then. After a first round bye, he is planned to open on Saturday in Indian Wells against the winner of Thursday’s game between Botic van de Zandschulp and Nick Kyrgios, who defeated Djokovic in the final of Wimbledon 2022.
Djokovic is a five-time champion at the BNP Paribas Open, most recently in 2016, and is looking for his 100th ATP title. He would only be the third man who does this and joins Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer. While he won Olympic gold in Paris last summer, the Serbian star has not won a tour title since 2023 and sometimes struggled openly with motivation – but said he was enthusiastic to play the Sunshine Double events in the United States this month.
“Different than Slams, [there are] Few tournaments that really give me inspiration when I wake up in the morning and think about where I want to do well, “said Djokovic.” Indian Wells and Miami are certainly at the top of that list. “
He added that he was excited to have former rival coach Andy Murray by his side for both events and said that the two will speak after Miami and ensure that they want to continue to work together.
“I was very happy when he decided to continue, Indian Wells, Miami and yes, the majority of the Klei-Court season,” said Djokovic. “… I think the plan is to go all the way to the end of Roland Garros, I think, and yes, hopefully also Wimbledon.”
