Indian Wells, March 10 – Former world No. 1 Novak Djokovic faced a tough challenge from rising American Aleksandar Kovacevic, but the five-time champion relied on his composure under pressure to defeat World No. 72, 6-4, 1-6, 6-4, and secure his place in the fourth round of the Indian Wells Open.
This is the second consecutive match this week in which Djokovic has needed three sets, having overcome a difficult opening against Kamil Majchrzak.
By reaching the round of 16 at a Masters 1000 event, Djokovic surpasses Rafael Nadal and takes the top spot on the all-time list. He is in the fourth round at Indian Wells for the first time since 2017 and will face defending champion Jack Draper next.
Kovacevic served 16 aces against the Serbian great but couldn't hold serve to stay in the match in the final game.
“Huge credit to Aleks,” Djokovic said. “He played at a really high level. He had a tremendous serving day. I have only faced him once before. I don't think we have ever played against each other on hard courts. For someone who is not extremely tall to serve this well and find the spots in the box, it was just phenomenal serving, so huge credit to him."
2021 champion Cameron Norrie earned his 13th career Top 10 win — and second in the California desert — by defeating Australia's Alex de Minaur 6-4, 6-4 in Stadium 3. The British southpaw improves to 3-2 against No. 6-ranked De Minaur and will face either Alexander Bublik or Rinky Hijikata next.
Meanwhile, Cameron Norrie also advanced to the fourth round in the California desert for the fourth time.
He earned his 13th career Top 10 win and second in the California desert by defeating Australia's Alex de Minaur 6-4, 6-4 in Stadium 3.
The British southpaw improved to 3-2 against No. 6-ranked De Minaur and will face either Alexander Bublik or Rinky Hijikata next.
