Djokovic missing the old ATP gang

With Novak Djokovic looking like the last survivor of the recent golden era of men’s tennis, the Serb enters the Indian Wells Masters feeling pangs over the absence of his longtime rivals.

With Roger Federer retired since September, 2022, and Rafael Nadal withdrawing here due to a lack of fitness after more than a year of injury recovery, the 36-year-old Djokovic is the odd man out.

“Those two guys and Andy Murray are an inseparable part of my development  as a player; it’s down to the rivalries I had with those guys.

“But the moment (of retirement) will come for all of us. An era comes to an end but there are so many wonderful moments and milestones we can celebrate.

“The rivalries between us are one of the greatest the sport has ever seen.

“Let’s see how much farther I can push the needle.”

Djokovic will bid for a record sixth title at the Californian desert venue as top seed after last competing here in 2019 and subsequently being banned from entry to the US after repeatedly refusing to get a COVID jab.

But with life back to normal, the 24-time Grand Slam champion is ready to get stuck in.

He last played six weeks ago, losing an Australian open semi-final against Jannik Sinner and taking time away from the sport.

 “I’m very excited to come back; Time flies incredibly fast – let’s see if I can have a good tournament.”

He also indicated a slight change of strategy as he plays out the final years of his record-breaking career.

 “I want to have clarity on goals and tournaments. I want to focus on the slams and the other big events.

“I’m not playing full seasons (any more) and I will be more selective as to where I play. I’ll listen to my body and create a schedule around the big events.

“I want to get the most out of myself in the later stages of my career.”