Novak Djokovic will not chase his sixth Indian Wells title this year. Similar to 2024, the 24-time Major winner fell to a lucky loser in the second round, with Botic van de Zandschulp earning a notable 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 victory in two hours and one minute.
Novak came to Indian Wells following an early defeat in Doha and extended his losing streak, playing way below his best and hoping for a better run in Miami. Botic entered the draw as a lucky loser and booked his place in the last 32 after ousting Nick Kyrgios and Djokovic.
The Dutchman made a promising start against the five-time winner and dominated the decider to emerge at the top in style.
The Moment the upset was complete 🤯@Boticvdz stuns Novak Djokovic 6-2 3-6 6-1 in Indian Wells 🤝#TennisParadise pic.twitter.com/JyXnqvmSf0
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) March 9, 2025
The Dutchman took 21 points more than the Serb. They did not play well behind the first serve, and Novak struggled behind the second big time! The veteran took seven of 24 points and faced eight break points. He lost serve five times to hit the exit door.
Van de Zandschulp defended the second serve superbly, losing serve two times in the second set but controlling the pace in other two. A lucky loser tamed his strokes nicely and hit 26 winners and 25 unforced errors. Novak fired 16 winners, 14 from his forehand.
Botic van de Zandschulp & Novak Djokovic, Indian Wells 2025© Stream screenshot
However, he also sprayed 37 unforced errors, mostly from the mentioned forehand wing. Botic led 24-13 in service winners and outplayed the legend from the baseline en route to a rock-solid victory. The Dutchman took charge in the opening set.
He provided four comfortable holds and delivered dominant breaks in games three and five for a massive lead. He closed the set on his serve in game eight for an early advantage after half an hour. Djokovic raised his level in the second set.
Botic van de Zandschulp, Indian Wells 2025© Stream screenshot
He produced three fine holds and broke in the second game for a 4-1 advantage. The Serb broke again in game six and served for the set at 5-1. Botic pulled one break back and reduced the deficit to 5-3 before Novak held in game nine to introduce a decider.
Van de Zandschulp made a fresh start and presented four holds. Djokovic could not follow that pace. The 37-year-old experienced back-to-back breaks in games four and six, finding himself 5-1 behind. Botic served for the win in game seven and welcomed Novak’s forehand error to emerge at the top.
Tennis World USA