Luca Nardi (No. 123) springs a major surprise, eliminating
world No. 1 Novak Djokovic 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 to advance to the fourth round of
Indian Wells. The Italian entered the main draw as a lucky loser and secured
the biggest victory of his career, guaranteeing his entry into the top 100 for
the first time at just 20 years old.
The first set was closely contested from the start, with
both players showing their determination not to give many opportunities on
their serves. Nardi was the first to earn a break point in the fifth game and
capitalized on his first chance to take the lead. Without hesitation, he
consolidated the advantage with his serve, leading 4-2.
There were no more break opportunities for either player for
the rest of the set. Nardi claimed the set 6-4 with an aggressive game,
producing 10 winners and 5 unforced errors compared to Djokovic's 8 winners and
4 unforced errors.
The 24-times Grand Slam champion responded in the second
set, securing an early break to go up 2-0. However, the young Italian
immediately recovered the break and leveled the set at 2-2. Despite Nardi's
efforts, Djokovic was relentless with his serve for the rest of the set,
conceding only one of the next 13 service points. He threatened Nardi with
several break points to ultimately take the set 6-3.
Read also
It seemed like another day where the Serbian would
comfortably come from behind, but Nardi showcased his best level and surprised
the world No. 1 in the third set. The No. 123 player went for every point,
boasting an impressive stat line of 16 winners and 4 unforced errors, compared
to Djokovic's 2 winners and 2 unforced errors.
Nardi displayed versatility from all areas of the court,
approached the net multiple times, and finally secured the crucial break in the
sixth game to take a 4-2 lead. The final moments of the match were highly
tense, but Nardi pulled through to cause a major upset at Indian Wells,
defeating Novak Djokovic 6-4, 3-6, 6-3.
This marks the first time Novak Djokovic has lost to a lucky
loser in a Masters 1000 draw, and he disappointingly exits in the third round
of Tennis Paradise. Nardi makes history as the lowest-ranked player to defeat
'Nole in a Masters 1000 or Grand Slam and remains in contention at Indian
Wells. In the fourth round, he will face Tommy Paul (17th seed), who eliminated
Ugo Humbert (14th seed).
Luca Nardi's run in Indian Wells 2024
- Q1 Nardi defeats Terence Atmane from France 6-4 6-0
- Q2 Belgian David Goffin defeats Luca Nardi 7-6(4) 5-7 6-4 - The Italian is out of Indian Wells
- For the Round of 64 Nardi is picked up as Lucky looser and defeats Zhizhen Zhang 6-3 3-6 6-3
- Finally in the Round of 32 Luca Nardi sends shockwaves through the tennis world by beating Novak Djokovic in 3 sets
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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