INDIAN WELLS, Calif. – While the battle lines for the BNP Paribas Open are typically drawn on the tennis court, a different kind of competition unfolded under the desert sun this week. Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev traded racquets for golf clubs, offering a glimpse of camaraderie and a surprising display of athletic versatility.
The impromptu golf outing, which took place on Monday, March 11, 2026, provided a relaxed setting for the three stars to connect ahead of their respective matches at the Masters 1000 tournament. Djokovic shared his amusement and admiration for Alcaraz’s powerful golf swing, a display that left him questioning the Spaniard’s limitations.
“Yesterday was a fun day on the course. It was Zverev, Alcaraz and myself playing some golf,” Djokovic told Tennis Channel with a smile. “It was my first time playing with these guys and it was fun. A lot of laughter, a lot of mind games but it was great.”
For Djokovic, a veteran champion accustomed to overcoming challenges on the tennis court, the golf outing served as a reminder of the transferable skills inherent in elite athleticism. However, it was Alcaraz’s performance that truly stood out.
“I am OK,” Djokovic said, grinning. “I am behind these guys. I don’t play as much as I used to and practice makes perfect. That is my excuse. The guys are pretty good. I show up and the first hole, the guy [Alcaraz] rips a 300-yard drive, par 5, going for an eagle. And I am like ‘Is there anything you are not good at man, what is going on here’. Just raw power.”
Zverev corroborated Djokovic’s assessment, noting that Alcaraz’s impressive drive wasn’t a fluke. The German and the Spaniard have been regularly hitting the links throughout the tournament week, turning the desert landscape into their own friendly golfing arena.
“Me and Carlos played every day almost, actually. Novak joined us two days ago,” Zverev said after his quarter-final victory against Frances Tiafoe. “Yeah, it was fun. Me and Carlos are very competitive, we’re on a similar level. I’m a handicap 8 or so and he’s around there too. So, it’s pretty competitive matches. Then Novak joined and it was quite fun.”
The lighthearted competition on the golf course provides a contrast to the intense focus required on the tennis court. Both Alcaraz and Djokovic are aiming for success at Indian Wells, with significant implications for the ATP rankings and the upcoming clay court season.
Alcaraz, currently the No. 1 ranked player, will face Casper Ruud in the fourth round. Djokovic, seeking to continue his impressive form, will be up against the defending champion, Jack Draper. Djokovic holds a 1-0 head-to-head advantage over Draper.
Zverev, a seven-time Masters 1000 champion, has already secured his place in the quarterfinals and will face Arthur Fils on Thursday. His strong performance at Indian Wells underscores his continued threat on the tour.
While the golf outing offered a welcome respite from the pressures of competition, the focus now shifts back to tennis. Alcaraz and Djokovic will undoubtedly bring the same intensity and determination to their fourth-round matches, as they vie for a place in the semifinals and a step closer to the title.
The BNP Paribas Open continues to deliver compelling storylines, both on and off the court. The camaraderie between these top players, exemplified by their friendly golf competition, adds another layer of intrigue to this prestigious tournament.
Fans can follow the ongoing action at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, with matches continuing through the weekend. The tournament promises further thrilling encounters and a showcase of the world’s best tennis talent.
What’s Next: Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic will return to the court on Wednesday, March 12, for their fourth-round matches at the BNP Paribas Open. Alcaraz faces Casper Ruud, while Djokovic takes on Jack Draper. Alexander Zverev will play Arthur Fils on Thursday.
