Novak Djokovic is absent from the Masters in Indian Wells – coach Goran Ivanisevic names goals and plans for 2023

Usual picture for Novak Djokovic: The Serbian world number one can only watch the ATP Masters in Indian Wells like last year.

His participation in the Masters in Miami (from March 22nd) therefore seems unlikely.

However, the 35-year-old has not given up yet, as coach Goran Ivanisevic revealed in an interview.

The 2001 Wimbledon champion also explained Djokovic’s tournament plans for the coming months and the goals the 22-time Grand Slam tournament winner has set for himself.

Djokovic still hopes for Miami participation

Banned from starting in Miami Advantage for Djokovic?

Participation in Miami could therefore not necessarily be conducive in preparation for the European clay court season.

“It depends on Novak – in the past he triumphed in Monte-Carlo after playing in Indian Wells and Miami,” noted the Croatian.

Despite injury to Grand Slam success

In comparison to last year, the preparation was easier anyway. After the drama in the run-up to the Australian Open 2022, the world number one was ill, Ivanisevic said. “He was in bed for ten days before the clay court season. In Monte Carlo he could hardly breathe, in Belgrade it was a little better,” the 51-year-old looked back. Therefore, the focus this year is on staying healthy.

Djokovic was also struck in his Australian Open triumph earlier this year. Despite a three centimeter tear in his thigh, the 35-year-old fought his way through the tournament and ended up winning his 22nd Grand Slam title, the tenth in Melbourne.

Ivanisevic was impressed: “I really thought I had seen everything when he won the Australian Open with a torn abdominal muscle in 2021. But this time he outdid himself.”

Djokovic wants to ‘reach the peak in Paris’

The next big goal is the French Open anyway, which the 35-year-old has only won twice (2016 & 2021) due to Nadal’s dominance. Ivanisevic said: “It’s going to be an interesting clay-court season but the most important thing for us is to reach our peak in Paris.” According to Wilander, 2023 could be Djokovic’s “last chance for a calendar Grand Slam”.

The Serb camp is less worried about the rest of the season. Because in May at the latest, the corona travel restrictions for unvaccinated people should also be lifted in the USA. “If that’s the case, Novak should be able to play the more important part of the year in the US: the US Open and the tournaments before New York,” Ivanisevic said.

He also gave fans hope for the near future: “I’m sure he can continue for a few more years.” Djokovic is “in perfect shape because he meticulously takes care of his body”. Everything depends on the superstar’s motivation. The hunt for new successes and records should therefore continue.