Regret reigns as Djoko ponders shock loss

Novak Djokovic had nothing good to say about his game after suffering a 6-3, 3-6,

6-1 opening match embarrassment on Saturday at the Indian Wells Masters to Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp.

“I regret the level of tennis, considering how I practised these days,” the former world No. 1 said of a match watched by new coach Andy Murray.

“To be honest, the difference between the center court and the other courts is immense. The ball is bouncing on the centre court – higher than some of thehighest clay courts, to be honest.

“I just struggled a lot with that. Couldn’t find the rhythm.”

The 24-time Grand Slam champion now ranked seventh, added: “When I reflect on this match, I’ll see a little bit more of what I could have done (better).

“I’m disappointed that I lost, but I guess if you put things in that larger perspective, of course I’ve had an incredible career. 

“Being consistent for so many years, obviously you have high expectations of yourself.”

But the 37-year-old may be starting to see the end of his record-breaking run at the summit of the sport.

“Things (have been) different obviously for me the last couple of years. I’ve been struggling to play on the desired level. 

“Every now and then, I have a couple of good tournaments, but, you know, mostly it’s really a challenge. It’s a struggle for me.

“I guess nothing can prepare you for that (kind of) moment, in a sense. You have to experience it and try to deal with it in the best possible way.”