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Djokovic Survives Kovacevic Scare, Norrie Upsets De Minaur at Indian Wells

Novak Djokovic was pushed to three sets by American Aleksandar Kovacevic but prevailed to reach the fourth round at Indian Wells for the first time since 2017. With the win, Djokovic set a new record for most Masters 1000 round of 16 appearances, surpassing Rafael Nadal. In another key result, 2021 champion Cameron Norrie secured a straight-sets victory over sixth-ranked Alex de Minaur for a significant Top 10 win. Djokovic next faces defending champion Jack Draper, while Norrie awaits the winner of the Alexander Bublik vs. Rinky Hijikata match.

Key Points: Djokovic, Norrie Advance in Tense Indian Wells Battles

  • Djokovic wins tough three-setter
  • Passes Nadal for Masters 1000 record
  • Norrie upsets 6th seed De Minaur
  • Djokovic faces defending champ Draper next
2 min read

Indian Wells Open: Djokovic survives Kovacevic scare, Norrie stuns De Minaur

Novak Djokovic edges past Aleksandar Kovacevic in three sets as Cameron Norrie scores a Top 10 win over Alex de Minaur at the Indian Wells Open.

"Huge credit to Aleks... He played at a really high level. He's had a tremendous serving day. - Novak Djokovic"

Indian Wells, March 10

Former world No.1 Novak Djokovic was put to the test by rising American Aleksandar Kovacevic, but the five-time champion relied on his grace under pressure to oust the World No. 72 6-4, 1-6, 6-4 to book his place in the fourth round of the Indian Wells Open.

It is the second consecutive match this week in which Djokovic has need three sets, having battled through a tough opener against Kamil Majchrzak to begin his campaign.

By reaching his 113th round of 16 at Masters 1000 events, Djokovic passes Rafael Nadal and sits alone atop the all-time list. He is into the fourth round at Indian Wells for the first time since 2017 and will face defending champion Jack Draper next.

Kovacevic fired 16 aces past the Serbian great but couldn't hold serve to stay alive in the match in the final game.

"Huge credit to Aleks," Djokovic said. "He played at a really high level. He's had a tremendous serving day. I've faced him only once earlier. I don't think we've ever faced 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 really 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 mived into 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.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Interesting to see Kovacevic push him so hard. The new generation is really stepping up. But Djokovic's experience in big moments is just a different class. That 113th Masters R16 record is insane!
A
Ananya R
Great win for Norrie too! He's such a solid player. De Minaur is no joke at World No. 6. The draw is opening up nicely. Would love to see a Djokovic vs Norrie final, that would be a proper battle.
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Vikram M
Honestly, a bit concerned. Novak is having to fight so hard in early rounds. The level of competition is fierce. Hope he conserves energy for the later stages. Draper next won't be easy either.
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Karthik V
These records just keep tumbling for him. Passing Nadal for most Masters 1000 R16 appearances is another feather in his cap. The longevity is simply remarkable. True legend of the sport.
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Michael C
Respectful criticism: The article repeats the same info about Norrie's win twice. Could be edited better. On the tennis, fantastic match. Kovacevic's serve was a weapon, but Novak's return game in the clutch is why he's the best.

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