Novak Djokovic, the renowned Serbian tennis star, is poised to make a strong return at the Sunshine Double events in the United States this month. Though Djokovic secured Olympic gold in Paris last summer, he has not clinched a tour title since 2023. Despite battling with motivation at times, Djokovic has expressed excitement about participating in these upcoming prestigious tournaments, including the BNP Paribas Open and Miami Open.
The tennis community was recently abuzz with speculation after a viral video emerged showing Djokovic hobbling into an airport following his participation in last month's tournament in Doha. However, Djokovic clarified that the incident was unrelated to any previous injuries, including the hamstring issue that forced him to retire from the Australian Open semifinals in January.
"It was really, yeah, awkward to see that video, because I arrived to the airport and I hit myself really badly as I was walking out, because it was very early, I think, 4 or 5 a.m. I was just limping because I hit myself badly in the ankle," – Djokovic
Djokovic reassured fans and followers of his current good health and readiness to compete.
"That's all. It was just a hit. It was nothing else. But then people connected it to the injury and thought it was something escalating and coming back," – Djokovic
The five-time BNP Paribas Open champion, most recently victorious in 2016, is in pursuit of his 100th ATP title. This year, Djokovic enters the tournament as the No. 6 seed and has received a first-round bye in Indian Wells. His opening match will be on Saturday against either Botic van de Zandschulp or Nick Kyrgios, whom Djokovic notably defeated in the 2022 Wimbledon final.
As Djokovic sets his sights on the Sunshine Double, he stands on the brink of joining tennis greats Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer as one of the few men to win both Indian Wells and Miami. The tennis star is further buoyed by the presence of former rival-turned-coach Andy Murray, who will be by his side for both events.
"Other than Slams, few tournaments that really give me inspiration when I wake up in the morning and think about where I want to do well," – Djokovic
Djokovic is eager to capitalize on this opportunity as he seeks to reclaim his competitive edge and add another prestigious title to his illustrious career.
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