Rafael Nadal’s run of winning Indian Wells in odd years has been ended by the in-form Novak Djokovic who is having the best season start in recent memory after beating the world number one 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 and moving into the number two ranking in today’s final. Interestingly Novak took the opportunity to call Nadal the greatest ever – not Federer. “For me, you are the greatest player ever and a good friend so I wish you good luck.”
The times when Novak has moved into the number two spot in the past are times when wither Nadal or Federer were injured or unwell, rather than Novak really exerting himself. This time it’s a different story.
In the last few months Novak has been the unbeaten best player in the world, beating former number two Roger Federer in three consecutive meetings this year. Novak has now won every single match and tournament he has played this year.
Nadal, on the other hand, has had patchy form during this tournament, and during the match watched his first serve percentage dip to a dismal 25% after looking strong on serve in the first set.
“I don’t think anybody is unbeatable. I do have the best period of my life on the tennis court, but nobody is invincible. Still you are just trying to play your best in each match you’re playing.
I am playing with a lot of confidence. I’m feeling the ball well on the court. I’m very dedicated. I have a big will to win each match I’m playing on, so it will not stop here, definitely. I want to keep on going and keep on playing good tennis. Hopefully I can recover and get ready for Miami.” – Novak Djokovic
“The serve was the difference today in my opinion. It’s true I played with less intensity after the first set, but I think everything is because of the serve. So just congratulate him. I think he did better than possible to start one season. He’s playing well. He’s in the right place at the right moment, so all the best for him for the rest of the season.” – Rafael Nadal
