Novak Djokovic is preparing to compete in Indian Wells – a tournament he last won in 2016.
The Serbian star, a winner of 24 Grand Slam titles, last competed at the Australian Open, where he reached the final before losing to Carlos Alcaraz.
Djokovic will now turn his attention to Indian Wells: a tournament where he has struggled to make his mark in recent years.
What does Novak Djokovic need to change to win a 25th Grand Slam title?
Djokovic, a member of the ‘big three’ alongside Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, is still searching for a 25th Grand Slam title; one that would make him the standalone leader amongst his peers.
However, the Serbian star must focus on a different challenge before aiming for Grand Slam glory.
Novak Djokovic can make a big statement by winning Indian Wells
Novak Djokovic has enjoyed great success in Indian Wells, winning the title in 2008, 2014, 2015, and 2016.
However, since his last title triumph in 2016, the Serbian superstar has struggled to impose his will on the competition.
Djokovic has failed to make it past the fourth round since 2016, last reaching the second round in 2025.
Therefore, when taking into account his recent troubles at the tournament, Djokovic can make a big statement by winning this year’s event.
Djokovic is in his twilight years on the Tour. However, he is still the most likely challenger to Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner’s recent dominance.
A title win in Indian Wells would prove that Djokovic is serious about challenging for Grand Slam titles later in the year, while proving that he can still triumph at events where the courts are slow.
Novak Djokovic’s Indian Wells results since 2016
| Year | Round | Opponent Djokovic lost to |
| 2017 | Fourth Round | Nick Kyrgios |
| 2018 | Second Round | Taro Daniel |
| 2019 | Third Round | Philipp Kohlschreiber |
| 2024 | Third Round | Luca Nardi |
| 2025 | Second Round | Botic van de Zandschulp |
Novak Djokovic’s 2025 Indian Wells campaign
Djokovic’s 2025 Indian Wells campaign did not go to plan.
The Serbian star struggled for consistency throughout his second-round match against Botic van de Zandschulp, eventually losing to the Dutchman in three sets, 2-6, 6-3, 1-6.
Djokovic hit only 16 winners to 37 unforced errors, according to Infosys ATP Stats.
After losing the match, Djokovic expressed his frustration.
“You know, things are different obviously for me the last couple of years,” he said. “I’ve been struggling to play on the desired level.
Can Carlos Alcaraz win MORE Grand Slams than Novak Djokovic? 🤔
“Every now and then, I have couple good tournaments, but mostly it’s really a challenge. It’s a struggle for me.
“I guess nothing can prepare you for that moment, in a sense. You have to experience it and try to deal with it in the best possible way.“
Djokovic’s loss to van de Zandschulp marked his third consecutive defeat at the time, following losses to Alexander Zverev and Matteo Berrettini in Melbourne and Doha.
Djokovic bounced back quickly after Indian Wells, reaching the Miami Masters final before losing to Jakub Mensik.
