Djokovic Returns to Indian Wells After 2019 Hiatus

Novak Djokovic is set to make a comeback to the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells next month, marking his first participation in five years, a break primarily caused by the pandemic and related U.S. travel restrictions. This news was confirmed with the release of the tournament’s entry list on Wednesday.

The tournament will also see the participation of Rafa Nadal, a three-time champion at Indian Wells, who had to skip the Australian Open recently due to a muscle injury. However, Nadal is gearing up to compete again, as indicated by his inclusion in the entry list for an ATP 250 event in Doha scheduled for February 19-24.

Djokovic, the world’s top-ranked player, last competed at Indian Wells in 2019 but was eliminated in the third round. He aims to clinch his sixth title at the event, which is considered the most prestigious tennis tournament after the four Grand Slams.

The 2020 edition of the BNP Paribas Open was called off because of the COVID-19 outbreak, and Djokovic could not participate in the subsequent three editions due to the U.S. policy that barred entry to unvaccinated foreign nationals.

The tournament boasts a lineup of top-tier players, including the current champion Carlos Alcaraz, Australian Open victor Jannik Sinner, and Taylor Fritz, the first American man to win at Indian Wells since Andre Agassi in 2001.

In the women’s competition, the world’s number one Iga Swiatek will compete alongside the 2023 Indian Wells winner Elena Rybakina, Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka, and American players Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula.

Former champions like Naomi Osaka, who won in 2018, and 2019 finalist Angelique Kerber, are making a return after a hiatus since 2022 due to maternity leave.

The BNP Paribas Open is slated to run from March 3 to March 17 this year.