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Alcaraz Stays Perfect, Djokovic Wins 'Ugly' at Tense Indian Wells

Carlos Alcaraz extended his perfect season start to 14-0 with a three-set comeback victory over Arthur Rinderknech. Novak Djokovic also advanced in three sets, overcoming a strong challenge from Aleksandar Kovacevic. Djokovic acknowledged he had to "win ugly" in difficult conditions against an inspired opponent. Next, the Serbian legend will face defending champion Jack Draper in the fourth round.

Key Points: Alcaraz, Djokovic Advance in Dramatic Indian Wells Matches

  • Alcaraz remains unbeaten in 2024
  • Djokovic wins tough three-setter
  • Alcaraz overcame a first-set tiebreak loss
  • Djokovic faces defending champ Draper next
2 min read

Carlos Alcaraz continues fine run at Indian Wells Open

Carlos Alcaraz extends his perfect season, while Novak Djokovic grinds out a three-set victory to advance at the Indian Wells Open.

"winning ugly, right? That is what counts. - Novak Djokovic"

California, March 10

Spanish tennis superstar Carlos Alcaraz continued his fine run in the ongoing Indian Wells competition, securing a win over Arthur Rinderknech on Monday.

Alcaraz outclassed Rinderknech 6-7(6), 6-3, 6-2 to extend his season run to 14 wins and zero losses, which also includes a memorable Australian Open triumph, as per ATP's official website.

"He was playing his best tennis, I would say, in the first, the beginning of the second. For me, it was really, really difficult," said Alcaraz.

"I got in trouble, to be honest, but just really happy with the way that I dealt with everything that was happening. I accepted it, kept going, stayed strong mentally and then tried to do a little bit differently... I think I just started to play more solid, waiting for my chances," he added.

Earlier, Serbian tennis icon Novak Djokovic moved to the fourth round of the ongoing Indian Wells Open, beating American Aleksandar Kovacevic on Tuesday night.

Djokovic, the five-time champion, outclassed Aleksandar 6-4, 1-6, 6-4, facing a setback in the second set to book his place in the fourth round of the event for the first time since 2017. This is the second successive match where Djokovic has played three sets, having played a tough campaign opener against Kamil Majchrzak.

Djokovic is tied with Roger Federer for most Indian Wells titles, but recent seasons have been a struggle for him. Last year was a shock first-round exit after losing to Botic van de Zandschulp. The 24-time Grand Slam champion will face defending champion Jack Draper after the Briton moved past Francisco Cerundolo 6-1, 7-5.

"I am not really enjoying myself at all times, to be honest," Djokovic said about his win. "You are trying to thrive in these kinds of conditions where you are facing an opponent playing lights-out tennis... But winning ugly, right? That is what counts. I am glad to be able to overcome the challenge today," he added.

Aleksandar first met Djokovic way back in 2005 and considers him his idol, and he pushed the Serbian icon to his limits. After a strong opening set in which he won 13 successive points on serve, he levelled with a brilliant second set win that left Djokovic searching for answers. However, the tennis legend saved his best for the decider and showcased a great range of shots, despite an ankle injury scare in the third game.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Interesting to see Djokovic struggling a bit, playing three setters back-to-back. "Winning ugly" as he says, but a champion finds a way. Hope his ankle is okay for the Draper match. That could be a cracker!
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Ananya R
Must be a dream and a nightmare for Kovacevic - playing your idol and pushing him so hard, but still losing. Respect to Djokovic for grinding it out even when not at his best. That's why he's the GOAT. 🐐
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Rohit P
As an Indian tennis fan, watching these legends is pure joy. But it also makes me wonder, when will we see an Indian player consistently competing at this level in singles? We have the talent, need the system. 🇮🇳
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Michael C
Alcaraz's mental game is what impresses me most. He talked about accepting the trouble and staying strong. At such a young age, that wisdom is rare. He's not just a power hitter; he's a thinker on court.
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Priya S
Djokovic's comment about not enjoying himself is a bit concerning. He's achieved everything, but the fire still burns. Hope he finds the joy again. Tennis needs a fit and motivated Novak for a few more years!

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