Novak Djokovic returns to Indian Wells for the BNP Paribas Open after a five-year absence, ready to compete.

Novak Djokovic, the current world number one in tennis, is making a long-awaited return to Indian Wells for the BNP Paribas Open after a five-year hiatus. His absence from the tournament since 2019 was due to COVID-19 travel restrictions in the United States preventing his participation. Expressing his excitement about returning to California, Djokovic emphasized his anticipation for being part of the prestigious tournament, known as the "Tennis Paradise," which is considered one of the premier events in the tennis calendar outside of the Grand Slams.

In a video statement quoted by Reuters, Djokovic conveyed his eagerness to compete once again in front of the passionate tennis fans that characterize the event. He described Indian Wells as his favorite Masters tournament and emphasized his eagerness to perform at the highest level. The Serbian star has his sights set on clinching an unprecedented sixth title at the Masters 1000 event, which commences the following week.

Reflecting on his previous successes at Indian Wells, Djokovic reminisced about his first victory at the tournament in 2008, shortly after winning his inaugural Grand Slam title at the Australian Open. He highlighted the significance of that triumph and subsequent victories, including memorable finals against tennis legends such as Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

Djokovic's return to Indian Wells coincides with the participation of other top players like Nadal, who missed the Australian Open due to injury. The tournament, which was canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, marks a significant moment for Djokovic, who was unable to attend the past three editions due to travel restrictions for unvaccinated individuals entering the United States.

Amidst his preparations for the tournament, Djokovic was seen enjoying another sport, attending a Major League Soccer match in Los Angeles. As the defending champions Carlos Alcaraz and Elena Rybakina gear up for this year's BNP Paribas Open, scheduled from March 3 to March 17, Djokovic's return adds further excitement to the highly anticipated event.