Recovered Djokovic all smiles as Sunshine Double beckons

Novak Djokovic explained away reports of an injury from last month’s Doha tournament, with the Serb now eager to compete back-to-back in this month’s pair of North American Masters 1000 hardcourt events.

The 37-year-old Serb will be competing at the ongoing Indian Wells event with a second-round start against Dutch qualifying lucky loser Botik van de Zandschulp, who advanced on Thursday when Nick Kyrgios was forced to quit their match with a wrist injury.

Djokovic was last pictured limping at Doha airport last month, but explained that it was all due to an accident and not an injury.

“It was really awkward to see that video, because I arrived to the airport and I hit myself really badly as I was walking out,” he said on Thursday.

“It was 4:00 or 5:00 a.m. I was just limping because I hit myself badly in the ankle. That’s all. It was just a hit. It was nothing else.”

The five-time Indian Wells champion and sixth seed added: “People connected it to the injury and thought it was something escalating and coming back.

“But anyway, I’m feeling good. I really look forward coming to Indian Wells and Miami this year, you know. 

“I’ll play the Sunshine Double for the first time after, I think, six years.”

Djokovic is back here with former rival and new coaching advisor Andy Murray in tow for the month after the all-star pair extended their experimental coaching relationship.

“It took him some time to go back and reflect on the partnership, speak to his people, his family, and see how committed he wants to be and where he can travel with me.

“I was very glad when he decided to keep going, Indian Wells, Miami, and yeah, most of the clay court season.

“We’re going to speak after Miami, obviously, but I think the plan is to go all the way till the end of Roland Garros and hopefully Wimbledon.

“I’m enjoying the relationship with Andy. I still feel like we are going through the process of getting to know each other on the court in a different way than we have known each other for 25 years. 

“I’m trying to communicate as much as I can on the court, off the court, for us to be able to connect better.”

Main photo:- Novak Djokovic playing Indian Wells in 2024 – by International Sports Fotos Ltd