After five years without setting foot in the California desert, Novak Djokovic will return this Saturday in Indian Wells and, after the withdrawal of Rafael Nadal of this tournament and included Roger Federer away from the courts, pointing to the “end of an era” in the world of tennis.
“We all know that those moments will come to all of us. But when it really comes and you understand that’s it, when Roger finishes his career and Rafa and I probably won’t play anymore, it’s like an era comes to an end.” , the Serbian reflected on Thursday at a press conference in Indian Wells.
“It’s sad but at the same time I think there are so many great moments, matches and milestones that we can celebrate, both for each of us and for everyone as a group,” he added, joining Scot Andy Murray in the legendary that. quartet of tennis players.
In addition, Djokovic regretted that Nadal had to give up Indian Wells at the last minute.
“That tournament was sad Rafa retire and also for him. In fact, I traveled with him to the United States. It was not planned and it was nice to see him and his family,” he commented. They both met on the same plane to this country. The Spaniard played an exhibition. Carlos Alcaraz in Las Vegas, but he pulled out a day before opening his participation in Indian Wells against the Canadian Milos Raonic.
But the Balkans also ensured that the future of tennis is guaranteed with youngsters making waves on the circuit like the Spaniard. Carlos Alcaraz or Italian Jannik Sinner.
“Tennis is in good hands. I hope the contributions we have made in the last 20 years can serve the purpose of expanding the popularity of this sport,” he said.
The Australian Alexander Vukicworld number 69, will be Djokovic’s first opponent this Saturday and in the second round on his return to Indian Wells, where he has not played since 2019 due to the coronavirus pandemic and non-compliance with vaccination requirements.
“There is a reason why this tournament is called ‘tennis paradise’: it is a pleasant experience for tennis players and fans. All people who love this sport really enjoy this tournament,” said one Djokovic who is “very excited” to compete again in the first Master 1,000 of the season.
“Time flies incredibly fast. I hope you can have a good tournament,” he said before starting his journey to a tournament he has won five times.
Source: La Verdad
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