Novak Djokovic sets unwanted Masters 1000 record after Indian Wells exit

Novak Djokovic made unwanted history in Masters 1000 tournaments following his shock defeat to Botic van de Zandschulp in his Indian Wells opener. The world No. 7 suffered his third consecutive loss and, for the second straight year, bowed out of Tennis Paradise in his first match.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion endured another disappointment in Indian Wells, but this time, it may hurt even more as his tough start to the season continues. After suffering an injury in the Australian Open semifinals, Djokovic has now fallen in his opening matches in both Qatar and Indian Wells.

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Novak Djokovic stunned again: Lucky loser Van de Zandschulp sends him packing in Indian Wells

This marks an alarming trend for Djokovic, who has won the Indian Wells title five times, sharing the record with Roger Federer. However, for the second consecutive year, he has lost to a lucky loser at the event. In 2024, it was young Italian Luca Nardi who stunned him—this time, Van de Zandschulp delivered the upset. This is the first time a top-10 player has lost in back-to-back years to a lucky loser in Masters 1000 history.

Djokovic struggled throughout the match, with an inconsistent serve and a forehand far from its usual effectiveness. The Serbian was ultimately overpowered by the Dutchman, who cruised into the third round with a 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 victory.

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After his brief stint in California, Djokovic now turns his attention to the Miami Open, arriving at one of the most challenging moments of his career. The former world No. 1 will travel alongside his coach, Andy Murray, hoping to regain form at a tournament where he has won six titles. However, since his last triumph in 2016, he has only won two matches in Miami, with his most recent appearance dating back to 2019.

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